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PRICE 25 CENTS 



REPRINT OF THE 

SQUADRON 
BULLETINS 

OF THE 

NORTH ATLANTIC SQUADRON 

WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY 

REAR ADMIRAL SAMPSON 



EDITION LIMITED 



NEW YORK 

DOUBLEDAY & McCLURE CO. 

1898 






I 



1 12 



INTRODUCTION 

THE "Squadron Bulletin" was first pub- 
lished on board the U. S. Flagship New 
York, on June 14, 1898. At that time 
the main part of the North Atlantic Naval force 
was in front of Santiago de Cuba, engaged in the 
somewhat monotonous work of blockading that 
harbor. Scattered around the Island of Cuba 
were other ships of the squadron, cut off, for the 
most part, from all news and with few means of 
communication. It was with the idea of reliev- 
ing the monotony of blockading routine and of 
affording the officers and men of the fleet an op- 
portunity to learn the daily progress of the war 
that the bulletin was issued. Thanks to the 
energy of Captain Chadwick, my Chief of Staff, 
who despite his many duties always found time 



INTRODUCTION 



to personally prepare the bulletin, it became a 
boon in every sense of the word. Since the 
necessity for the further issue of the bulletin 
ceased on August 14 there have been many re- 
quests from officers of my command for complete 
sets and missing numbers. Doubleday & Mc- 
Clure have kindly consented to republish the 
series. Whatever profit there may be on the 
sale of this reprint will be donated to the pro- 
posed Sailor's Rest, Brooklyn. 

W. T. SAMPSON, 

Rear Admiral 



SQUADRON BULLETIN 

No. i. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA 



June 13, 1898. 

Information has been received that the Army was to leave 
Tortugas to-day. Unofficial news states it is to come round 
the west end of Cuba. 

The St. Paul from New York and the Vesuvius from 
scouting in the Old Bahama Channel arrived to-day. 
The St. Louis from Mole St. Nicholas arrived with dis- 
patches. The latter has returned to Mole St. Nicholas. The 
Collier Scindia, Commander Watson, has arrived at Guan- 
tanamo. 

Preparations have been made to open a telegraphic of- 
fice at Guantanamo. It is hoped it will be in operation on 
the fourteenth, so that dispatches may go via Mole St. 
Nicholas. 

The firing at Guantanamo has to-day been much less. 
The total losses have been: Surgeon Gibbs and four ma- 
rines killed on the eleventh, and two yesterday — Sergeant 
Major Woods and Private Taurman, the latter by falling 
over a cliff. Six marines have been wounded. 

Sixty officers and men of the Cuban forces at Guanta- 
namo have received arms, clothing and food, and have been 
of great service Five hundred more are expected. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 2. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



June 14, 1898. 

The New Orleans was ordered to fire at new work on 
the West battery. She was replied to by both the East and 
West batteries. She silenced the East Battery and practical- 
ly the West. A number of shells fell near the New Or- 
leans and flagship, but no harm was done. 

The Vesuvius fired three shells, two 10 and one 8-inch; 
one fell just short of the crest of the hill on which the Wesl 
battery is situated ; one went over the hill into the harbor, 
or in a line with the situation of the Spanish torpedo boats, 
and the third struck the crest of the hill of the West bat- 
tery. All exploded with terrific force. 

Two shots were fired by the West battery ; it was stated 
that one went over the Massachusetts. 

Reports from Guantanamo go to show that probably half 
the deaths and wounded so far reported were due to acci- 
dents. 

Desultory fighting still continues. 

The contingent of sixty Cubans which have been armed, 
clothed and fed, have rendered most effective service. Com- 
mander McCalla and the marine officers speak in the high- 
est terms of their conduct. 

A, considerable body of Cubans is expected at Guanta- 
namo to-day. They will be supplied with food and cloth- 
ing from the St. Paul, and partially with arms. These men 
have been sent down unarmed, as it was requested that their 
rifles be left behind for the use of others in the field. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No 3. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



June 15, 1898. 

Yesterday (14th) a force of marines and Cubans attacked 
the enemy, which was routed for the time. Forty bodies 
were found. One lieutenant, one corporal and fifteen 
privates were captured. A blockhouse was partially de- 
stroyed, the well from which they got their water supply de- 
stroyed, and the heliograph apparatus captured. Our loss 
was two Cubans killed and four wounded ; two marines 
wounded. Twenty-three marines were overcome by heat, 
but all recovered. The Dolphin accompanied the force on 
the sea front, and shelled the enemy. The force of the en- 
emy was stated by the lieutenant captured at 200 ; by the 
privates at about 450. The enemy is being reinforced by 
troops from Caimanera, and the Texas and Suwanee were 
consequently sent to destroy the fort and capture the gun- 
boat used in transporting men. 

From the "Daily Gleaner'' of Kingston, dated June 14th. 

The Paris correspondent of the "Sunday Special" says: 
Spain's most steadfast friends here are losing hope. The 
candid friends of the Queen Regent deplore the obstinacy 
with which she accepted war when totally unprepared ; 
then to continue fighting when the case is hopelessly lost 
will only alienate France. 

London, June 12. — The Vienna correspondent of the 
"Observer" says that private advices received here show 
that the situation in Spain is such that peace is speedily 
and earnestly desired. The finances of the country are 
threatened, and famine and the intrigues of the Carlists 



8 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

and republicans render peace imperative. The Spanish 
Government is now drawing up a memorandum to the 
Powers requesting their friendly intervention. I learn from 
diplomatic sources that France and Austria are prepared 
to accede to, while Russia and Germany disapprove inter- 
vention. The enormous increase in Russian grain trade 
since the war began has probably influenced Russia's atti- 
tude on the whole problem of European intervention. 

London, June 13. — The Spanish Minister of the Colo- 
nies, according to a special despatch from Madrid, has in 
the course of a recent interview expressed the opinion that 
nothing short of a miracle can save Manila. 

London, June 13. — The Madrid correspondent of the 
"Daily Xews." telegraphing from Bayonne, says General 
lilanco's last despatch being less sanguine, tin- Cabinet 
Council discussed whether it should be published and de- 
cided upon some verbal alterations. Military precautions 
have been taken at Madrid to quell the disturbance when 
the inevitable happens. Reports are again rife that the 
Queen Regent wishes to shift the regency to the Infanta 
Isabel and let her accept the American credit. It is expected 
that Russia will protest against the alliance of Admiral 
Dewey as belligerent with Aguinaldo, the insurgent chief. 

London. June 13. — The Rome correspondent of the 
"Standard" says, owing to serious news from the Philip- 
pines, the Tope has wired the Queen Regent of Spain, plac- 
ing his services at her disposal if she considered that the 
time had arrived for the intervention of the Powers in favor 
of Spain. The Queen Regent in reply telegraphed her 
thanks, saying that at an opportune moment she would feel 
the Pope's offer to be very acceptable. 

London, June 13. — The Paris correspondent of the 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 9 

"Standard" says critics here regard the occupation Guan- 
tanamo harbor as a master stroke and that the three thou- 
sand Spaniards allowed the landing is ominously signifi- 
cant. 

Highland Light Mail, June 13. — The U. S. Cruiser San 
Francisco ran ashore during a dense fog this morning at 
a point about a half mile west of High Head Life Saving 
Station. The cruiser lies in an easy position, and it is 
thought she will float without any injury at high water. 

New York, June 13. — Colonel John Hay, the United 
States Ambassador in London, has telegraphed his gov- 
ernment in Washington that Manila has surrendered. No 
details. It is thought probable that the above information 
is obtained from advices received at the British Foreign 
Office. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN NO. 4- 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Thursday, June 16, 1898. 

The fort at Guantanamo was destroyed yesterday by the 
Texas and Marblehead. The channel to Caimanera is to 
be dragged for torpedoes. One torpedo was picked up by 
the Marblehead's screw. There has been no serious fight- 
ing reported ashore in the last day. 

The Yankee which has returned from Cienfuegos where 
she had been sent to intercept a Spanish steamer, the 
Purissima Concepcion, from Kingston, Jamaica, had, off 
the port, an engagement with a Spanish gunboat and the 
batteries ashore. One man was wounded. The gunboat, 
which had come out apparently to observe the character of 



IO SQUADRON BULLETINS 

the Yankee, escaped, chiefly on account of the firing be- 
ing interrupted by the smoke. 

The Vesuvius fired three projectiles last night about 1 1 ; 
one struck the hill on which is the Western battery ; one 
went over and is thought to have struck Cay Smith, and 
one is supposed to have gone into the water between 
Socapa and Cay Smith. All are supposed to have ex- 
ploded. 

More complete reports from Guantanamo state that the 
force of Spaniards routed by the marines and the Cubans 
on the 14th instant numbered about 300. and that their loss 
was between 40 and 60 men killed, one officer and 17 sol- 
diers captured. 

A second Spanish mine was brought to the surface by the 
screw of the Texas and was picked up by the Marble- 
head's launch. Both of these mines are French, with 
depth regulators ; contain forty-six and one-half kilos of 
gun-cotton, and each has six contact arms. Manufactured 
in August, 1896, and placed in position in April, 1898. 

Two Spanish soldiers came in voluntarily and surrender- 
ed. One of them reported that the Spanish forces near the 
marine camp had been without food for three days, and that 
one body of 500 would give themselves up were they not 
prevented by their officers. 

A Spanish spy endeavored to make his way from Guan- 
tanamo to Santiago, and was captured on the 1 ith instant. 
In his possession was found a letter from the Commanding 
General at Guantanamo to the Commanding General at 
Santiago, stating that his men were on half rations and that 
he had food only to last to the end of June. It is under- 
stood that the spy was hanged by the Cubans. 

At early dawn the Squadron bombarded the forts at the 






SQUADRON BULLETINS II 

entrance of Santiago. The forts were quickly silenced, and 
the fire was continued for half an hour and probably did 
much damage, as no shots were fired at the ships while 
they were withdrawing. 

A heavy explosion was observed in one of the batteries. 
The firing was deliberate, and was very accurate, especially 
that of the Texas. None of the ships were struck. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 5. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Friday, June 17, 1898. 

Everything remains quiet at Guantanamo. Our people 
have been dragging for mines in preparation for attacking 
the gunboat in the upper bay. 

The following letter was captured by the Cubans enroute 
to Santiago: 
Excellent Sir: 

The seventh day, at dawn, brought seven ships before 
the port of Caimanera. They fired grape shot and all kinds 
of projectiles on the Playa del Este and Cayo Toro until 
they set fire to the fort on the Playa Este and burning the 
houses of the pilots which the detachment occupied. This 
lasted, cannonading with more or less intensity, until five 
o'clock in the afternoon. 

As the Playa del Este had only two muzzle loading guns 
and sand intrenchments, the detachment could do nothing 
before the six ships, firing on them from all sides. They 
retired into Manigua and to the Cuzco Hill, where they re- 
main to-day making sallies on the beach. 

From that day 150 men occupy Punta Caracolas, observ- 



12 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

ing the movement of ships which occupy all the outer port, 
with a transport of war and a variable number of armed 
ships and other vessels of war and armed merchant ships ; 
total never less than four. 

I have also taken Enanto Passes and the vigilant Magne 
which is disposed to fall on them where damage can be 
done. 

I remain in Caimanera and will only come to the Enanto 
when I think it necessary, as to-day. I have not been aide 
to antagonize the American ships with rifle fire, no known 
ground being at hand. Yesterday the Captain of En- 
gineers ordered to make safe protections that would impede 
and to make them low. The ground of Playa Este is better 
for this purpose. I refer solely to disembarkation. Dia E. 
Sandoval and Cayo Toro fired with their artillery, being 
impeded with their short range, when the ships retired to 
the center of the channel and took positions in the middle 
of the Bay, or they would not have stopped answering the 
fire which the enemy's ships w^ere keeping up with im- 
punity. Sandoval has not over seven discharges of pierc- 
ing projectiles, and Caimanera battery did not fire, reserv- 
ing fire until the ships entered the channel, which is where 
their guns reached. I am told that the insurgent forces at 
Baracao have come down to Siguabos, their increased hap- 
piness being noticed, and Palamar, and I do not know 
more. 

The American Squadron in possession of the outer bay 
has taken it as if for a harbor of rest, they having anchored 
as if one of their own ports, since the seventh, the day they 
cut the cables. In the entrance and center of the harbor, 
I not being able to reach them, they have not again molest- 
ed me except with two cannon shots on the eighth. It ap- 
pears from the work that is being done that they are pre- 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 1 3 

paring to plant the harbor with mines, or place their ships 
for disembarkation, at Playa del Este, their favorite place. 
If it is the first, I call your attention to it, in case that some 
time our Squadron should come here. The forces of the 
Brigade are in good spirits. I continue serving one-half 
rations of everything, and in that way I expect to reach only 
the end of the month, above all in bread, as I have no flour 
of any kind, as I said, and no way of getting any on account 
of there having been no corn for some time. Quinine for 
the hospitals the same. In hard straits I have taken private 
drug stores, and will have enough until the end of the 
month. Town in needful circumstances, first need since 
the second ultimo. On the seventh we had only two 
wounded at Cayo Toro. The cable house, riddled with 
shell, still stands, and if Americans abandon port, which I 
doubt, everything possible will be done to re-establish com- 
munication, to which end I have everything ready. 

To-day there is in the harbor a large armored vessel and 
seven more vessels with a large transport that appears to 
be a store ship. They patrol Playo del Este with armed 
launches, I have just been informed. 

I return to Caimanera on seeing the carrier of this start 
out, he meriting my confidence as a trusty of the Brigade, 
having rendered me good services up to date. By sea I 
have ready a youth that served in the navy and who offered 
himself spontaneously. I actively recommend him to your 
Excellency, should he arrive. 
Enanto, 10 June, 1898. 

[Signed] FELIX PAREJA. 

[There is a seal that says Ejercito de Operaciones en 
Cuba, E. M. Division de Cuba, 2a Bgde.J 
To His Excellency, 
General Commanding Division of Cuba. 



14 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

The Porter communicated with La Sigua (near Baca- 
nao) to-day, and brought on board the Flagship General 
Castillo and Colonel Verannes. 

There are some 600 men now near La Sigua, some of 
whom needed arms, and all needed provisions. Two hun- 
dred and eighty rifles and equipments were sent from the 
fleet, and provisions for one week from the Flagship. 

General Rabi with several officers also came on board 
from Aserraderos with communications from General 
Garcia. 

General Garcia is now on his way toward Santiago, and 
will arrive in the vicinity within the next three or four days. 
He will probably have with him some three thousand men, 
being obliged to leave behind a number to prevent any 
junction of the Spanish forces at Holguin, where there are 
some eight or ten thousand men, witli those at Santiago. 

Garcia's forces are now well armed and supplied, 
through the successful expedition of the Florida, which 
landed 7,800 rifles, over a million and a half of cartridges, 
and a large quantity of stores and provisions at Banes 
about the first of the month. 

It is reported that General Pando, the second in com- 
mand in Cuba, is now en route to Santiago by way of Man- 
zanillo. 

P. is now understood the Army was not to leave until the 
15th. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN NO. 6. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Saturday, June 18, it. 
A reconnaissance was made yesterday of the vicinity of 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 1 5 

Cabanas Bay. The force, under command of Lieutenant 
Harlow, consisted of two steam cutters, one from the New 
York in charge of Naval Cadet Powell, the other from the 
Massachusetts in charge of Naval Cadet Hart; the 
launches left the picket line at 3.30 and reported alongside 
the Vixen and started into the bay at 4.45. Almost im- 
mediately after passing the old fort at the entrance they 
were fired upon and the fire was so continued and heavy 
and at such short range that they were obliged to retreat. 
Much of the firing was from within fifty yards. The two 
launches were struck seventeen times but no one was in- 
jured. The Texas and Vixen came to the support of the 
launches and opened a vigorous and effective fire at short 
range dispersing the enemy. Lieutenant Harlow particu- 
larly praises the conduct of Naval Cadets Hart and Powell, 
and coxswain O'Donnell and seaman Blom. 

Matters remain quiet at Guantanamo Bay. The Spanish, 
from good accounts, are transporting their artillery to 
Guantanamo town. A shell fired yesterday by the Oregon 
destroyed a railroad car and set fire to a warehouse. It 
is stated by a spy that the Sandoval gunboat is filled with 
straw preparatory to being destroyed. It would seem that 
the forces at Guantanamo are looking to attempting to join 
those at Santiago. It seems clear, from an intercepted 
communication that nothing is known in Santiago of af- 
fairs at Guantanamo. The Cuban forces hold all the coun- 
try between the two places and the Cubans state that it 
will be impossible for the Guantanamo garrison to pass. 

General Garcia is within two or three days of Santiago 
with about 3,000 men, leaving about the same number be- 
hind him to observe the Spanish in the vicinity of Holguin. 
General Rabi, near Acerraderos (18 miles west), has 930 
men. All these are well armed. 



l6 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

The following information regarding the batteries and 
mines of Santiago has been received, and is believed to be 
reliable: The Socapa Battery, opposite Estrella, two Hon- 
toria guns of i6c-m, four Maxim-Nordenfeldt rapid firing 
3J m-m, one Maxim-Nordenfeldt of 57 m-m, and one Gat- 
ling of 25 m-m. All these guns were taken off the Reina 
Mercedes. 

At the Morro were two Maxim-Nordenfeldts of 75 m-m 
which were taken off the Terror, and brought by one of 
Cervera's ships. 

The Punta Gorda Battery in the harbor has two Ordonez 
guns of compressed bronze, 15 c-m calibre, one Ilontoria 
of 16 c-m, and another gun was taken off the Reina Mick- 
cedes, and when the informant left Santiago this gun was 
all ready on the lighter to be taken to Punta Gorda. — (This 
gun was observed from the New York being parbuckled 
up the hill to the Punta Gorda Battery.) Besides tin 
guns there are at all the batteries some old muzzle-loading 
guns. 

There are two electrical stations for torpedoes at the 
Socapa, one at the Estrella, and one at the Cayo Smith. 
These stations are connected with two lines of torpedoes 
of the Latimenclar system. One line in the channel had 
seven topedoes, of which one was fired when the Merri- 
mac was sunk, but without any effect on her, as the tor- 
pedo went off when she cleared this line. The second line 
had five, also in the channel, about one hundred meters 
from the first. One of these torpedoes was also fired at the 
Merrimac without any effect. The torpedoes are in square 
boxes of iron, containing 226 kilos of gun-cotton. They 
had also made ready to sink some Bustamente torpedoes/ 

Our informant states that the Merrimac does not block 



SQUADRON BULLETINS I 7 

the channel. He says that she is a little to the right of it 
and vessels can go in and out without touching direct. 

He states that on the bombardment of the 3d instant a 
shell killed Capitan de Fragata Emilio Acosta y Herman, 
second in command of the Reina Mercedes, and five men, 
and wounded six men. 

Our informant thinks that now Mr. Hobson and his men 
have been taken up into Santiago. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 7. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Sunday, June 19, 1898. 

The Yankee went west last night to blockade Cienfue- 
gos. The Dixie arrived from the North, convoying the 
refrigerating and supply steamer Celtic which immediate- 
ly began the distribution of fresh provisions to the vessels 
of the fleet. 

The Dixie was sent to blockade off Cape Cruz. 

The Yosemite arrived from Jamaica, and was sent to 
Guantanamo to coal. 

The Chief of Staff went down to Aserraderos in the 
Vixen to examine the facilities for landing at that point 
and the points between there and Santiago de Cuba. He 
returned bringing with him General Calixto Garcia, Gen- 
eral of Division Lora and several officers of their staffs. 
General Garcia has about four thousand men back in the 
country — probably forty-five miles by road from Santiago 
de Cuba — two days' march. He left behind him three 
thousand men who are engaged in observing the Spanish 
forces, numbering about eight or ten thousand, at Hoi- 



j 3 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

guin, in order to prevent their moving south to the relief 
of Santiago. All of these seven thousand men are well 
armed and supplied with ammunition, the Florida ex- 
pedition having supplied all deficiencies. 

The Yosemite brought from Jamaica official informa- 
tion from the Navy Department that the Army Corps had 
sailed on the sixteenth. 

The St. Louis, dragging close in shore last night, lifted 
and cut two cables south of the Morro, and in all proba- 
bility telegraphic communication with Jamaica has been 
cut off. 

Information has been received that the Army convoy is 
expected on the afternoon of the 20th. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 8. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Monday, June 20, 1898. 

Information was received this morning by the Wompa- 
tuck, which had been sent forward from Captain Taylor 
of the Indiana, that the transports convoying the Army 
would arrive during the forenoon at a point fifteen miles 
south of Guantanamo, and later in the day south of San- 
tiago. The Chief of Staff, with messages from the Admiral, 
went at 8 in the Gloucester to go on board the Segu- 
ranca, aboard which was General Shafter. 

The Convoy was found southeast of the Morro, about 
18 miles. The Seguranca left the Convoy and arrived at 
the blockade line at noon. Admiral Sampson and the As- 
sistant Chief of Staff went aboard and the ship went off 
Acerraderos. A visit was made ashore by General Shafter 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 19 

and Admiral Sampson, accompanied by a number of offi- 
cers. Generals Garcia, Rabi and Castillo were at the camp. 

The naval vessels convoying the transports are the fol- 
lowing: 

Indiana, Detroit, Annapolis, Castine, Helena, 
Bancroft, Manning, Osceola, Wasp, Hornet, Eagle, 
Wompatuck, Rodgers, Ericsson and Dupont. 

The force consists of about 16,000 men, all regular troops 
except two regiments. Colonel Woods' regiment is among 
them but is dismounted. 

The Alexander, collier, arrived during the morning. 

Everything is reported tranquil at Guantanamo Bay; the 
report that the enemy were removing their artillery from 
Caimanera toward Guantanamo is repeated. The fact of 
the Suwanee taking part in the bombardment of the fort 
on the 15th was inadvertently omitted in the "Bulletin" of 
the 1 6th. She was present and is reported as having ren- 
dered good service. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 9. 



u. s. flagship new york, off santiago de cuba, cuba. 

Tuesday, June 21, 1898. 
The day has been given to arrangements for landing on 
the 22d. Five hundred Cuban troops were transported by 
the Gloucester and Vixen from General Rabi's camp at 
Acerraderos (18 miles west of Santiago), to Sigua (25 miles 
east). The intention had been to land at Cajobabo (5 miles 
west of Sigua), but the surf occasioned by heavy weather 
oft Jamaica interfered with this. It is expected that this 
force, in connection with some 500 Cubans already there 



20 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

tinder General Castillo, will act simultaneously with the 
landing of General Shatter's troops. 

The Order of Battle for the 226. gives details of the pro- 
posed landing. It is expected to be able to land not less 
than 2,000 men at a time, the boats of the Squadron sent 
being equal to this number ; the boats of the transports, also 
available, can transport 1,500. 

Seven mines were found to-day at Guantanamo Bay in 
the channel leading up to the fort. This makes ten re- 
covered out of the total of eleven reported. 

The cable at Guantanamo has been connected with Mole 
St. Nicholas and an office opened for general telegraphic 



use. 



THE FOLLOWING IS THE ORDER OF BATTLE: 

NORTH ATLANTIC STATION. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Order of Battle, June 21, 1898. 

1. — The Army Corps will land to-morrow morning, the 
entire force landing at Daiquiri. The landing will begin at 
daylight, or as soon thereafter as practicable. General Cas- 
tillo with a thousand men coming from the eastward of 
Daiquiri will assist in clearing the way for an unopposed 
landing, by flanking out the Spanish forces at that point. 

2. — Simultaneously with the shelling of the beach and 
blockhouses at Daiquiri, the Ensenada de los Altares and 
Aguadores, both to the eastward of Santiago, and the small 
bay of Cabanas, about two and one-half miles to the west- 
ward of Santiago, will be shelled by the ships stationed 
there for that purpose. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 21 

3. — A feint in force of landing at Cabanas will be made, 
about ten of the transports, the last to disembark their forces 
at Daiquiri, remaining during the day or greater part of the 
dav about two miles to the southward of Cabanas, lowering 
boats and making apparent preparations for disembarking a 
large body of troops ; at the same time General Rabi with 
500 Cuban troops will make a demonstration on the West 
side of Cabanas. 

4. — The following vessels are assigned to bombard the 
four points mentioned above: 

At Cabanas, the Scorpion, Vixen and Texas. 

At Aguadores, the Eagle and Gloucester. 

At Ensenada de los Altares, the Hornet, Helena and 
Bancroft. 

At Daiquiri, the Detroit, Castine, Wasp and New Or- 
leans, the Detroit and Castine on the western flank, the 
Wasp and New Orleans on the eastern flank. All the 
vessels named will be in their position at daylight. 

5. — Great care will be taken to avoid the wasteful expen- 
diture of ammunition. The firing at Daiquiri will begin on 
signal from the New Orleans. 

At Cabanas it is probable that, after a few minutes, unless 
the firing is returned, occasional dropping shots from the 
smaller vessels will be sufficient, but the semblance of cov- 
ering a landing should be maintained, the ships keeping 
close in. 

At Aguadores and Ensenada de los Altares the same rule 
should prevail. At Daiquiri, the point of actual landing, 
vessels will of course use their artillery until they have 
reason to believe that the landing is clear. They will take 
care to make the firing deliberate and effective. As Gen- 
eral Castillo's column, approaching from the eastward, is 



22 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

likely to come within range of the guns, sharp-eyed quarter- 
masters with good glasses will be stationed to lookout for 
the Cuban flag, and care will be taken not to direct the fire 
toward any point where that flag is shown. 

6. — The Texas and Brooklyn will exchange blockading 
stations, the Texas going inside to be near Cabanas. The 
Brooklyn, Massachusetts, Iowa and Oregon will retain 
their blockading positions, and will keep a vigilant watch 
on the harbor mouth. The Indiana will take the New 
Orleans' position in the blockading line east of Santiago 
and between the Flagship New York and the shore. This is 
only a temporary assignment for the Indiana to strengthen 
the blockading line during the landing, and avoid any pos- 
sibility of the enemy's breaking through, should he attempt 
to get out of the port. 

7. — The Suwanee, Osceola and Wompatuck will be 
prepared to tow boats. Each will be provided with two 
five or six-inch lines, one on each quarter, each long enough 
to take in tow a dozen or more boats. 

8. — These vessels will report at the New York at 3 a. m. 
on June 22d, prepared to take in tow the ships' boats which 
are to assist in the landing of troops and convey them to 
Daiquiri. 

9. — The Texas, Brooklyn, Massachusetts, Iowa. 
Oregon, New York and Indiana will send all their steam 
cutters and all their pulling boats, with the exception of one 
retained on board each ship, to assist in the landing. These 
boats will report at the New York at 3 a. m. 

10. — Each boat, whaleboat and cutter will have three 
men ; each launch five men, and each steam cutter its full 
crew and an officer for their own management. In addition 
to these men each boat will carry five men, including one 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 23 

capable of acting as coxswain to manage and direct the 
transports' boats. Each steam launch will be in charge of 
an officer who will report to Captain Goodrich. Care will 
be taken in the selection of boat-keepers and coxswains to 
take no men who are gun-pointers, or who occupy positions 
of special importance at the battery. 

11. — Unnecessary oars and impediments should be re- 
moved from the pulling boats for the greater convenience 
of the transportation of troops, but each boat should retain 
its anchor and chain. 

12. — Captain C. F. Goodrich, commanding the St. 
Louis, will have, on the part of the Navy, general charge 
of the landing. 

13- — The New Orleans will send her boats to report to 
Captain Goodrich upon her arrival at Daiquiri. 

14. — The attention of Commanding Officers of all vessels 
engaged in blockading Santiago de Cuba is earnestly called 
to the necessity of the utmost vigilance from this time for- 
ward — both as to maintaining stations and readiness for 
action, and as to keeping a close watch upon the harbor 
mouth. If the Spanish Admiral ever intends to attempt to 
escape that attempt will be made soon. 

WILLIAM T. SAMPSON, 
Rear Admiral, 
Commander-in-Chief, U. S. Naval Force, 
North Atlantic Station. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 10. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Wednesday, June 22, 1898. 
The arrangements for landing the troops, as mentioned in 



24 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

the Order of Battle for the day, were successfully carried 
out, and some 3,500 men were ashore by 3 p. m. 

When the boats were ready to move in, which was not 
until about 9 a. m., an animated fire was begun and kept up 
for some minutes by the New Orleans, Detroit, Cas- 
tine, Suwanee and Wasp. There was no reply, as far as 
known, by the enemy. The difficulties of landing were very 
great on account of the unusually heavy swell, setting in 
from the southeast. 

It was found, very fortunately, that the water pipes had 
not been disturbed, thus insuring troops and ships an ex- 
cellent supply of water. 

The only reply anywhere along the line of eighteen miles, 
several points of which were bombarded as laid down in the 
instructions, was at Cabanas. The Texas, at this point, 
had a long, continued engagement with the West battery, 
and did most excellent firing. She was, unfortunately, 
struck by one shell, and one man was killed and eight were 
wounded. The names of killed and wounded are as follows: 
Frank J. Blakeley, apprentice, first class, killed. 
Rudolph Earl Engel, seaman, cut in front of right ear. 
Hugh Amos Lee. apprentice, second class, wound right 

thigh and left leg. 
John Emory Lindy, landsman, piece of shell left face, con- 
tusion in back. 
George Francis Mullin, apprentice, second class, wound 

over left hip. 
John Edmund Nelson, apprentice, second class, slight 

wound right great toe. 
John J. Simonsen, seaman, burns in face. 
Aroid Sjoquist, ordinary seaman, superficial wound back 
right ear. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 2$ 

Raymond Russell, apprentice, second class, numerous 
wounds right thigh, left leg, left ankle, etc. 

Three gun-cotton shells were successfully thrown by the 
Vesuvius during the night against the Eastern battery ; no 
reply was made. 

The Indiana has taken up position in the blockading 
line; the Annapolis and Hornet are at Daiquiri; the 
Detroit, Castine and Eagle are to accompany the ad- 
vance of the Army ; the Helena and Osceola are to go on 
blockade duty, south coast; the remaining vessels of the 
Convoy (excepting torpedo boats) are to return to the 
north side of Cuba. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. n. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Thursday, June 23, 1898. 

About 7,000 were landed yesterday and the landing has 
rapidly progressed to-day. Our forces have advanced to 
the Ensenada de los Altares (Sibouney), and the men of the 
first division are now landing there, it being understood that 
the disembarkation is to continue during the night. 

The supposition that the Daiquiri water supply had been 
left uninjured was a mistake; the pipe was cut some dis- 
tance above and the flow observed was only that remaining 
in the pipe below the cut ; a force of Cubans and engineers 
was sent to endeavor to make repairs. As the water piped 
directly to the pier, this repair is of the utmost importance 
both for men ashore and for the rhips. 

Three shells were thrown by the Vesuvius at 1 1 o'clock 
last night against the East battery, two of them landing, ap- 



2 6 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

parently, in the battery itself ; the third struck the hillside 
below the battery. 

The Texas went this morning to Guantanamo for am- 
munition and returned this evening. 

The Collier Kingtor was sent to Guantanamo to assist 
in coaling the numerous ships now coaling there. 

The following notes are from the "Daily Gleaner," 
Kingston, Jamaica, June 22d: 

Washington, June 20. — The War Department received 
a dispatch stating that the Cadiz fleet returned to a Spanish 
port. 

London, June 20. — The Madrid correspondent of the 
"Times" says that Spain's refusal to exchange Lieutenant 
Hobson and his companions of the M err i mac is easily ex- 
plained and justified. Without any intention of acting as 
spies they must have seen many things in and around San- 
tiago which the American Naval military authorities would 
gladly have information about. The idea that Germany will 
interfere to prevent the storming of Manila is now aban- 
doned, but speculation is active as to her political designs. 
"El Epoca" suggests that Germany many negotiate with 
the Philippines' republic and lease a portion of the province 
of Cagayan, including the part Aparri in the Island of 
Luzon. With the approaching close of the Cortes there is 
much speculation as to political changes. A reconstruction 
of a semi-military cabinet is talked of. This must not be 
taken as indicating an increase in the warlike spirit ; on the 
contrary, it is expected that this would mean a determina- 
tion to conclude peace as soon as it could be obtained con- 
sistently with national honor ; a semi-military cabinet in 
touch with the enemy, and with the courage of its opinions, 
would be best qualified for carrying out the resolute 
peace policy which the interests of the land require. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 27 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 12. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Friday, June 24, 1898. 

The landing of the Army has progressed very satisfactor- 
ily, and it is now practically ashore, with the exception of 
the men of two or three transports, which wandered off to 
the westward and had to be looked up. 

The first division was put ashore at Sibouney (Ensenada 
de los Altares), five miles west of Daiquiri, without resist- 
ance. There is a very good beach there, rather steep to ; 
but as to-day has. been smooth, there was very little surf. 
The St. Louis anchored close under the cliff, which, by its 
southern trend at this point, affords considerable protection 
from southeast winds. 

During the forenoon there was an active skirmish in 
which the "Rough Riders" and the 71st Volunteer Regi- 
ment, which were in the advance to the northwest of Sibon- 
ey, were engaged. There were from three to twelve report- 
ed killed, probably the lesser number, as the total wounded 
brought in up to 4 p. m. and cared for on board the St. 
Louis and in the improvised hospital at Sibouney were but 
thirteen. The Detroit, Scorpion and Wompatuck were 
sent along shore westward to do some firing against any of 
the enemy who might be in that direction ; only two men 
were reported by the Detroit as seen. 

The animals were landed at Daiquiri as also the Ar- 
tillery. There was some slight loss among the horses from 
their swimming seaward when put overboard. The pasture 
of vicinity is reported good. 

There has been a pontoon landing laid at Acceraderos by 



2 8 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

the engineers in the transport Alamo under General Lud- 
low, and three transports were sent there this afternoon to 
bring to Sibouney General Garcia and his forces (some three 
thousand). 

The water pipes at Daiquiri have been repaired and there 
is now a good supply. There is a three-inch main down to 
the village, and a one-inch pipe led down the pier, alongside 
of which a vessel may lie and water. There is a good head. 

The Celtic has been sent to Guantanamo to supply the 
ships and Marines there; she will be back Sunday morning. 
All the convoying ships except the Indiana have been sent 
there for coal; the Hornet has coaled and gone to the 
Southern blockade. 

It was stated on excellent authority that the house used 
by the Commandant at Daiquiri was so hastily deserted that 
many things were left, and that there was an unfinished 
letter on the desk addressed to the General Commanding at 
Santiago, in which the writer begged "to assure his Ex- 
cellency that he was abundantly able to resist any attack at 
Daiquiri, either by land or sea." They left behind their 
heliograph apparatus. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 13. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Saturday, June 25, 1898. 

The following is a detailed account of yesterday's skir- 
mish furnished by the Assistant Adjutant General: 

General Wheeler, with one Squadron of the 1st U. S. 
Cavalry, one of the 10th U. S. Cavalry, and two Squadrons 
of the 1st U. S. Volunteer Cavalry, had a stiff skirmish yes- 
terday near Quasima, about two and one-half miles from 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 20, 

Sevilla. After an hour's resistance the enemy was driven 
from a strong and intrenched position on a high hill, and 
retreated towards Santiago. Other of our troops arrived 
on the field, but not before the issue was decided. We are 
now strongly posted near Guasima, with a detachment in 
Sevilla, and a picket half a mile beyond. Our losses are re- 
ported to be 22 killed and 80 wounded. Among the killed 
are Captain Capron and Lieutenant Hamilton Fish, 1st 
Volunteer Cavalry, and among the wounded Major Brodie, 
Captain McClintock and Lieutenant Thomas of the same 
regiment, and Major Bell, Captain Knox, and Lieutenant 
Bryan, 1st U. S. Cavalry. Captain Knox is said to be 
seriously wounded. I am also informed Mr. Marshall, cor- 
respondent, is wounded. The names of the killed and 
wounded have not yet been received. The enemy's dead, 
so far counted, numbers 18, but because of the tall grass 
and thick brush it is very difficult to find their bodies, and 
a like difficulty was experienced in finding our own dead. 
We have two troops of cavalry and a light battery en route 
to General Wheeler, and others will follow in a short time. 
All is satisfactory on land, but the General is exceedingly 
anxious to get supplies ashore. 

General Shatter in a letter to the Admiral to-day states 
that he has occupied Sevilla. 

A force was sent by Commander McCalla this morning to 
determine whether the enemy still occupied the extremities 
of Punta del Jicacal, Quantanamo Bay. 

The force under Colonel Huntington, U. S. M. C, con- 
sisted of two companies of Marines and two-thirds of the 
force of Cubans under Colonel Thomas, in all about 240 
men. 

The landing flotilla consisted of boats from the various 



30 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

ships towed by the steam launches of Helena, Annapolis 
and Bancroft, which left their ships at 2 a. m. for the 
Marine Camp, under the command of Commander Eaton. 
The Eagle took station for the night off Jicacal Point, and 
at 4 a. m. the Marbleiiead and Helena moved into 
position close to beach to South and Westward of the high 
lands of Jicacal Point to cover landing. The boats ad- 
vanced in three columns and the troops were landed quietly 
and quickly, and a thorough reconnoisance was made of the 
point. The enemy was not seen. The men re-embarked 
about 8. 

A picket line of Spaniards was seen from the ships, one 
or two men at a time, across the dry lagoon a couple of 
miles to north and west. 

The Marblehead then proceeded to the channel be- 
tween Jicacal and Cayo del Hopital to drag for mines; four 
mines were found and successfully raised. This makes 
thirteen mines in all raised in the channel. 

It was omitted to mention that on Thursday, 23d, the 
Assistant Chief of Staff was sent in the Vixen with a flag 
of truce to the mouth of the harbor to make inquiry as to 
whether Mr. Hobson and his men were still confined in the 
Morro, and if so to make protest. Captain Concas of the 
Spanish Navy representing the Spanish authorities met our 
flag. He stated that our men had been removed to town 
and were all well. 

The following appears in the Kingston, Jamaica, 
"Gleaner" of June 24. 

Havana, June 14. — Flying a flag of truce, an American 
gunboat was sighted this afternoon, and the Spanish gun- 
boat Flecha was sent out with Lieutenant-Colonel Sebas- 
tian Ramos and Lieutenant Jose Rolden on board. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 3 1 

When the Flecha returned two hours later she had on 
board Captain Ludlow of the American monitor Terror, 
who had been delegated by Rear-Admiral Sampson to ne- 
gotiate for the exchange of Assistant Naval Constructor 
Hobson and his six companions belonging to the Merri- 
mac, and who are now held in the Morro at Santiago de 
Cuba. 

Captain-General Blanco was informed by Lieutenant- 
Colonel Ramos of the nature of Captain Ludlow's mission, 
but he sent back word to the American that he had no in- 
structions from his government regarding the case, and 
could not treat with him. 

Captain Ludlow returned on the Flecha to the Amer- 
ican gunboat, which immediately left the port. 

Madrid, June 22. — News of serious fighting near Santi- 
ago de Cuba has been received here. Admiral Cervera 
cables that the situation is critical and the Governor of San- 
tiago admits that the Spaniards have been obliged to re- 
tire, but a Spanish victory is claimed. 

Palermo, June 24. — A dispatch from the Island of Pan- 
teleria announces that Admiral Camara's squadron passed 
there to-day going in the direction of Suez. 

Newport News, Va., June 23. — Auxiliary cruiser Yale 
with troops for Santiago sailed from Old Point Comfort at 
6 o'clock this evening. 

Madrid, June 23. — The cable dispatches received here 
from Admiral Cervera say that the crews of the Spanish 
warships at Santiago* have joined the land forces in order to 
take part in defence of the city. He adds that the situation 
is critical, but a later dispatch arrived affirming that the 
Spaniards have victoriously repulsed the enemy. A dis- 
patch from the Governor of Santiago de Cuba says the at- 



o 2 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

tack on Siboney and Daiquiri continued until nightfall. The 
enemy was repulsed except on the left at Daiquiri, where 
the Spaniards were obliged to retire in consequence of the 
flanking movement on the part of the enemy, who landed 9 
kilometers east of Daiquiri. The Spanish forces retired in 
good order into the mountains of Siboney and Benan, which 
places were destroyed by American shells. 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 14. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA; CUBA. 



Sunday, June 26, 1898. 

The whole of the Army is now ashore and rapidly moving 
up to the front, the advanced main body being at Sevilla, 
with a heavy picket line some distance beyond, -111(1 an ad- 
vanced picket line beyond that, probably within three miles 
of Santiago. 

From a report made by one of the wounded, a nephew of 
Surgeon Berryhill of the New York, a considerable part 
of the damage to our troops Friday last was done by seven 
millimetre machine guns manned by seamen, so that tic re 
would seem to be some probability in the report of the use 
ashore of the crews of the squadron. It was understood 
that these guns were captured by our forces. 

Wire fences are extensively placed. It has long been 
known that Santiago was completely surrounded by one, 
but it was not expected they would be met with so far 
afield. Our men, however, tore down and passed through 
the obstacles. 

General Garcia's troops, 2,978 in number, were brought 
from Acerraderos and landed at Siboney by three of the 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 33 

transports. Their embarkation was much facilitated by the 
building of General Ludlow of a wharf at Acerraderos. 

The landing of stores is rapidly progressing at both Dai- 
quiri and Siboney. The anchorage at the latter place is 
very fair, and it may possibly be made available as a place 
to coal from our colliers. The St. Louis was anchored 
there for several days with, at times, seven transports. 

Gustav Weineck, ordinary seaman, was drowned from 
the New York to-day in leaping from the Collier Alex- 
ander to the ship ; the sea running between the two vessels 
swept him under at once and he did not rise. 

Several shots were fired last night by the Vesuvius at the 
Morro which seemed to be effective. 

The Celtic, supply steamer, returned this morning from 
Guantanamo. 

The Dolphin left for the Havana blockade. 

The Helena and Yankton (Lieutenant-Commander 
Adams) left yesterday for the Southern blockade. 

The Hist (Lieutenant Lucien Young) arrived yesterday 
and went to Guantanamo for coal. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN NO. 15. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Monday, June 27, 1898. 
The Yale arrived this morning with some 1,300 men, 
part of the Brigade under General Duffield ; the remainder 
left Hampton Roads yesterday in the Harvard. The 
Yale, with the assistance of the St. Louis, landed her men 
at Siboney, all being ashore by 5.30 p. m. This makes a 



34 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

total landed (including' the Cubans) of about 21,000 men. 
The Yale was equipped, during- her stay North, with a 
battery of ten 5-inch guns. 

It was stated this evening, the information being ap- 
parently reliable, that the water supply of Santiago has been 
cut off. 

The south coast blockade is being gradually strength- 
ened ; the Yankee, Helena, Yankton and Eagle are 
off Cienfuegos; the Dixie, Hornet and Osceola off Cape 
Cruz. It is to be expected, unless great vigilance be used, 
that vessels running the blockade will be more numerous ; 
these are now generally smaller, for use in the shoal 
waters of the reefs extending from Cape Cruz, West. 

The Vesuvius fired three projectiles last night against 
the Morro ; but one was heard to explode, and this against 
the side of the hill; the others went over. Another 
explosion, similar in character to that of a few nights since, 
took place at Aguadores ; it is thought it was an attempt 
to blow up the bridge. 

Our Army pickets are gradually progressing westward 
on the coast line from Siboney ; caution should be exer- 
cised that they be not mistaken for the enemy. 

Lieutenant Blue returned from a tour of 60 miles made 
to observe Santiago Bay. He was very successful in car- 
rying out what was intended. 

The Commanding General of the Fifth Corps has been 
very complimentary in his telegram to the War Depart- 
ment regarding the assistance afforded him from the fleet 
in landing troops and stores. The successful disembarka- 
tion in so short a time of so large a number of men in the 
immediate neighborhood of almost as numerous an enemy 
and on a surf-bound coast, is a noteworthy fact in which 
our forces, shore and sea, may reasonably take pride. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 35 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 16. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Tuesday, June 28, 1898. 

The Army is still engaged in landing stores ; no advance 
has taken place since last report. 

The colliers Aberenda, Scindia and Alexander have 
sailed for Norfolk; the Lebanon and a large four-masted 
schooner with coal have arrived from Key West. The 
Lebanon has brought the fleet and army mail and a 
quantity of packages which have accumulated for officers 
and messes at Key West. 

Information has been received, by two Cuban officers 
from Manzanillo, that General Pando, with 8,500 men, left 
Manzanillo on the 23d for Santiago, and is moving at the 
rate of twelve miles a day, carrying with him cattle as food. 

General Perez is actively engaged against the enemy in 
the Guantanamo district. As the Commanding Officer re- 
ported in an intercepted dispatch that his food (half rations) 
would last only until the end of June, they must be in con- 
siderable straits. The total Spanish force there is about 
5,000. 

Several persons from Santiago have come into our lines ; 
they report great scarcity of provisions — rice is the chief 
support — they gave some minor information as to block- 
houses and batteries. They stated that a panic existed 
among the inhabitants of the town. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 17. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Wednesday, June 29, 1898. 
General Shafter established his headquarters yesterday at 



36 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

the front, and it is not unlikely that an advance will take 
place to-day. Our forces are in plain sight of Santiago. 
It is stated that there is a large number of points in the 
city marked with the red cross flag. There was desultory 
musketry firing in the evening. 

Two locomotives at Siboney have been repaired and are 
now in use on the railway there. Siboney appears to be 
much the better landing of the two used; the little bay 
affords very considerable shelter from the southeast swell. 
and a considerable number of ships can anchor there. 

The British steamer Adula, with Senor Chaves, sub- 
secretary to Captain-General Blanco, is seeking to com- 
municate with this part of the coast and should be carefully 
looked out for. 

The blockade off Cape Cruz has been re-enforced by the 
addition of the Manning, Scorpion, Hist and Wom- 

PATUCK. 

The Suwanee (Lieutenant-Commander Delehanty),made 
a close inspection of the batteries to-day (at 1,000 to 1,200 
yards). The West Battery now has three guns of good size, 
apparently 6-in. and two ship's guns of 5-in.. with shields. 
The East Battery, three of 6 or 8-in. and two of 5-in. ; pro- 
tection is being thrown up at the East Battery to the east- 
ward, at right angles to the coast line. 

The cable has been picked up off Siboney, cut and taken 
into shore, so that communication is now complete between 
here and Washington. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 18. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Thursday, June 30, 1898. 
Preparations were making by the Army for an advance. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 37 

The weather has been against the troops, the roads being 
muddy and difficult. 

The Louisiana arrived yesterday from Tampa with some 
volunteers. 

The Assistant Chief of Staff visited the Headquarters to- 
day, and was within 4,000 yards of Santiago (the advanced 
pickets), from which point the higher portions of Santiago 
are visible. The left of our Army will rest 4,000 yards E.S.E. 
of Santiago, the line extending in a northeasterly direction to 
a point on the road between Caney and Santiago. 

General Garcia, with 4,000 Cubans, was to move round 
the right flank to reach high ground northeast of Santiago, 
with a view of cutting the communications north of the city. 
General Shafter's headquarters are near El Pozo, toward 
the left of the line, in the valley of the San Juan. 

The balloon made a successful ascension. 

The Adula came to Guantanamo yesterday and was 
seized by the commanding officer of the Marlehead, and 
a guard put aboard pending an examination. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 19. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Friday, July 1, 1898. 

The Army had very serious work of it to-day, losing 
heavily in killed and wounded, officers particularly suffer- 
ing. The total of killed and wounded is probably a thou- 
sand. 

A demonstration was made by a Michigan volunteer 
regiment toward Aguadores in the forenoon. The Navy 
was requested to assist, beginning at daylight, but the 
troops which came by rail to within a mile and a half of 
Aguadores, did not all arrive until about 9.20. The vicinity 



^g SQUADRON BULLETINS 

was shelled by the New York, the Suwanee and the 
Gloucester. There was no one in the old fort on which 
a Spanish flag has been so long displayed and a varying 
number of the enemy (16 to 20) were counted from time 
to time in the rifle-pits on the hill. These disappeared as 
firing began. A corner of the fort was knocked off and 
the flagstaff was knocked down by the Si wax 1:1:, which 
was allowed three shots in which to do it. The second 
shot tore the center from the flag and the third knocked 
down the staff. Desultory firing was kept up between the 
Spanish from the wood adjoining the rifle-pit, and about 
noon a small field-piece was brought down the gorge which 
fired four or five times. The New York, on observing 
this, enfiladed the gorge, firing several 8-inch shell and a 
number of 4-inch. No firing by the enemy was observed 
after this. It was reported the troops had two men killed 
and several wounded. They returned to Siboney about 
12.30. The New York and Oregon fired a number of 8- 
inch shell over the hills in the direction of Santiago and the 
ships in the bay, using a range of from three and one-half 
to four miles. 

The Newark flying the broad pennant of Commodore 
J C. Watson arrived off Santiago and reported to the Com- 
mander-in-Chief. The Vulcan and Harvard also ar- 
rived; the latter bringing 1,600 troops. 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 20. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 

Saturday, July 2, 1898. 
The day was chiefly marked by a very animated bom- 
bardment in the morning by the fleet, beginning at 5.49 
and lasting until 7.45. The ships were, beginning at the 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 39 

eastward, the Gloucester, New York, Newark, In- 
diana, Oregon, Iowa, Massachusetts, Texas, Brook- 
lyn, Suwanee and Vixen. It was specially desired to fire 
at the Punta Gorda Battery and particular attention after 
silencing the batteries was paid to this point by the battle- 
ships which were directed close to the entrance. 

The Morro suffered very severely, being extensively dam- 
aged on the southeast corner. The flag-staff was shot away, 
it was thought by the Oregon, though the Indiana may 
have a claim to the exploit, both being close under the 
Castle at the time. The bombardment was with a view to 
demonstrate at the same time the Army attacked, but the 
proposed assault was not made. 

The Chief of Staff paid a visit to Siboney with a view 
to arranging for a consultation between the Commander- 
in-Chief of the Fleet and the Commanding General, and 
while there saw some 200 prisoners brought in. Perhaps 
three-fourths were Cubans, being of those known as Mobil- 
zados, but all Spaniards and Cubans showed emaciation 
from want of food. They were in pitiable plight in every 
way. 

Some 400 wounded of our Army men were in the im- 
provised hospitals (tents) near the beach. 

Lieutenant Young arrived in the Hist. This vessel, with 
the Hornet and Wompatuck, had had a very lively fight 
at Manzanillo with the Spanish gunboats at that point, and 
one off Neguero Bay near there ; this latter was apparently 
beached and blown up. The three vessels entered Man- 
zanillo Bay and found five or six armed vessels at anchor 
and soldiers at many points ashore ; one gunboat was re- 
puted blown up in the bay. The Hornet had a shot 
through her steam-pipe and had to be towed out by the 
Wompatuck. She returned here, however, under her own 



40 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

steam. Though subject to a very heavy fire there were no 
casualties from this, the only injuries to the men being the 
scalding of F. Madsen, S. Bakker, and P. Griffin, of the 
engineer force aboard the Hornet. 

The Hornet captured the small steamer Benito Es- 
tenger, leaving Manzanillo and two schooners loaded with 
provisions and attempting to run the blockade. 

The Newark, with the broad pennant of Commodore 
Watson, left for Guantanamo for coal and repairs to gun 
mounts. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 21. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Sunday, July 3, 1898. 
This is a red letter day for the American Navy, as 
dating the entire destruction of Admiral Cervera's for- 
midable fleet; the Infanta Maria Teresa, Vizcaya, 
Almirante Oquendo, Cristobal Colon, and the deep- 
sea torpedo-boats Furor and Pluton. The flagship 
had started from her station about 9 to go to Siboney, 
whence the Admiral had proposed going for a con- 
sultation with General Shatter; the other ships, with 
the exception of the Massachusetts and Suwanee, 
which had, unfortunately, gone this morning to Guantana- 
mo for coal, were in their usual positions, viz.: beginning 
at the east, the Gloucester, Indiana, Oregon, Iowa, 
Texas, Brooklyn and Vixen. When about two miles 
from Altares Bay and about four miles east of her usual 
position, the Spanish fleet was observed coming out, and 
making westward, in the following order: Infanta Maria 
Teresa (flag), Vizcaya, Cristobal Colon, Almirante 
Oquendo, Furor and Pluton. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 4-1 

They were at once engaged by the ships nearest and the 
result was practically established in a very short time. The 
heavy and rapid shell fire was very destructive to both ships 
and men; the cruisers Infanta Maria Teresa, Almir- 
ante Oquendo and Vizcaya were run ashore in the order 
named, afire and burning fiercely. The first ship was beached 
at Nima-Nima, five and a half miles west of the port ; the 
second at Juan Gonzalez, six miles west ; the third at Acer- 
raderos, fifteen miles west. The torpedo-boat destroyers 
were both sunk, one near the beach, the other in deep water 
about three miles west of the harbor entrance. 

The remaining ship, the Cristobal Colon, stood on and 
gave a long chase of forty-eight miles in which the Brook- 
lyn, Oregon, Texas, Vixen and New York took part. 
The Colon is reputed by her captain to have been going 
at times as much as seventeen and a half knots, but they 
could not keep this up chiefly on account of the fatigue of 
the men who, many of them had been ashore in Santiago 
the day before and had been, while there, long without food ; 
her average speed was actually thirteen and seven-tenths 
knots, the ship leaving the harbor at 9.43 and reaching Rio 
Tarquino (forty-eight miles from the Santiago entrance) at 
1.15. She was gradually forced in toward the shore and 
seeing no chance of escape from so overwhelming a force, 
the heavy shell of the Oregon already dropping around 
and beyond her, she ran ashore at Rio Tarquino and hauled 
down her flag. She was practically uninjured but her sea- 
valves were treacherously opened and in despite of all ef- 
forts she gradually sank, and now lies near the beach in 
water of moderate depth. It is to be hoped that she may 
be floated, as she was by far the finest ship of the squadron. 
All her breach-plugs were thrown overboard after the sur- 



42 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

render and the breach-blocks of her Mauser rifles thrown 
away. 

The flagship remained at Rio Tarquino until i i p. m. 
and then returned to Santiago. The Texas, Oregon and 
Vixen remained by the prize. Commodore Second-in-Coin- 
mand of fleet, Captain de Navio of the first class Don Jose 
de Paredes y Chacon, Captain de Navio Don Emilio Moreu, 
commanding the Colon, and Teniente de Xavio Pablo 
Marina y Briengas, Aid and Secretary to the Commodore, 
were taken on board the New York. The 525 men of the 
crew of the Colon were placed on board the Resolute, 
which had come from Santiago to report sighting a Spanish 
armored cruiser which turned out to be the Austrian Maria 
Teeesa. The other officers were placed aboard the Reso- 
lute and Vixen. 

Admiral Cervera and many of his officers and nun were 
taken off the shore by the Gloucester and transferred to 
the Iowa, which ship had already taken off many from the 
Vizcaya; 38 officers and 238 nun were on board the Iowa, 
and 7 officers and 203 men were on board the Indiana. 
All these were in a perfectly destitute condition, having 
been saved by swimming or taken from the water by our 
boats. Admiral Cervera was in like plight : he was re- 
ceived with the usual honors when he came aboard, and 
was heartily cheered by the Iowa's crew. 

The following telegram was sent by the Commander-in- 
Chief: 

"The fleet under my command offers the nation as a 
Fourth of July present the destruction of the whole of 
Cervera's fleet. Not one escaped. It attempted to escape 
at 9.30 this morning; at two the last ship, the Cristobal 
Colon had run ashore 60 miles west of Santiago, and 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 43 

hauled down her colors. The Infanta Maria Teresa, 
Oquendo and Vizcaya were forced ashore, burned and 
blown up within twenty miles of the port. Loss: — One 
killed and two wounded. Enemy's loss probably several 
hundred from gun fire, explosions and drowning. About 
1,300 prisoners, including Admiral Cervera. The man 
killed was George H. Ellis, chief yeoman, of the Brook- 
lyn." 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 22. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Monday, July 4, 1898. 

The prisoners are to be sent north in the Harvard and 
St. Louis. Thirty-nine officers and 959 men are in the first ; 
76 officers and 641 men in the second ; these, with some sick 
and wounded aboard the hospital ships, amount to 1,750; 
the number of dead is about 600. 

The Brooklyn went to Guantanamo to coal and over- 
haul ; the Marblehead, which came up from Guantanamo 
carrying Commodore Watson, also went back to-day. 

Just before midnight of this date the Texas and Massa- 
chusetts, which were in front of the port, with their search- 
lights up the entrance, reported an enemy's vessel coming 
out, and they fired a number of shot which took effect 
against her. The batteries also opened and a num- 
ber of shell fell at various points, the attention paid by the 
batteries to the ships being general. The Indiana was 
struck on the starboard side of the quarter-deck by a mortar 
shell which exploded on reaching the second deck, near the 
wardroom ladder; it caused a fire which was quickly ex- 



44 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

tinguished. This is the first accident of the kind to the 
fleet. The vessel inside turned cut to be the Rein a 
Mercedes, which was sunk on the east edge of the channel 
just by the Estella Battery. She heads north and is canted 
over to port with her port rail under water. She does not 
appear to obstruct the channel. 

General Pando has reached Santiago from Manzanillo 
with 5,000 men. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 23. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Tuesday, July 5, 1898. 

Mention of the presence of the torpedo-boat Ericsson 
on the 3d instant was, unfortunately, omitted. She was in 
company with the flagship and turned at once on sighting 
the enemy. As she was drawing away from the New York 
she. signalled asking permission to continue the chase, but 
she was directed to pick up two men in the water which 
she did, and, on reaching the ViZCAYA, she was directed 
by the Iowa — the flagship having gone ahead — to assist in 
the rescue of the Vizcaya's crew. She took off eleven 
officers and ninety men. The guns of the ViZCAYA 
during the operation were going off from the heat and ex- 
plosions were frequent so that the work was trying and 
perilous for the boats of the two vessels (Iowa and Erics- 
son) engaged. 

The former report from the Army, which was official, 
regarding General Pando's entry into Santiago is an error ; 
General Shatter thought that he had been enabled to form 
a junction, but some few of his men only have been able 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 45 

to do so ; the General himself and his remaining force, it 
is thought, will not be able. 

The day was an uneventful one from the naval stand- 
point. The flagship went to the wrecks of the Infanta 
Maria Teresa and the Almirante Oquendo. The 
former lies in an easy position on sand and with 
almost her normal draft of water. She is, of course, 
completely burned out inside above the protective 
deck, but the shell of her hull seems good, and her 
machinery is probably not seriously injured. It looks 
very much as if she were salvable. The Oquendo is 
much worse off. She had been subjected to a much heavier 
gunfire, being racked and torn in every part; she is much 
more out of water and the forward part much distorted and 
torn by the explosions of her magazines and torpedoes. The 
loss of life was very great. Charred bodies are strewn 
everywhere, the vicinity of the port forward torpedo-room 
particularly was almost covered. The torpedo exploded in 
the tube, it may be by a shot. This is a question which, it 
is hoped, may be conclusively decided. The fact of so many 
bodies being about would seem to bear this out, but two 
of her crew, taken off the beach this afternoon, were ques- 
tioned and both stated that it was the result of fire, and that 
the number of bodies was to be accounted for by the fact 
that the operating-room was just below and that many 
wounded came up that far and were there suffocated. The 
two men were intelligent young fellows and talked very 
freely. They said the gun-fire was such that is was im- 
possible to keep the men at the guns. One was a powder- 
passer, the other at a 57 m-m gun. In the forward turret 
were two officers and five men, evidently killed by the 
entry of an 8-inch shell between the top of the turret 



46 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

and the gun-shield. Altogether this ship is a most striking 
instance of what rapid and well-directed gun-fire may ac- 
complish. She was terribly battered about. 

While the flagship was lying near the Oquendo, and her 
steam cutter was alongside and a small boat from the press 
tug Hercules lying on the starboad quarter, a shell ex- 
ploded in a 15 c-m gun and a piece went through the tug's 
boat, cutting it in two; the man in the boat was not hurt. It is 
somewhat extraordinary that this shell should have waited 
so long to act, as the after part of the ship was generally 
well cooled off; there was still much heat and some flames 
about the bows. One extraordinary fact is the survival, in 
proper shape, of many powder grains, baked hard ; several 
of these were picked up about the decks. 

A board has been ordered by the Commander-in-Chief 
to report, in detail, upon the stranded ships. 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 24. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW' YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Wednesday, July 6, 1898. 

The Gloucester and Suwanee have been detailed to 
attend upon the Board ordered to report upon the stranded 
Spanish ships. The Board is as follows: 

Lieutenant-Commander Raymond P. Rodgers. 

Lieutenant-Commander Newton E. Mason. 

Lieutenant Reginald F. Nicholson. 

Lieutenant Francis J. Haeseler. 

Lieutenant Edward E. Capehart. 

Passed Assistant Engineer George W. McElroy. 

Passed Assistant Engineer Frank Af. Bennettt. 

Assistant Constructor Richmond P. Hobson. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 47 

The Newark, with Commodore Watson's broad pen- 
nant, arrived from Guantanamo. 

The flagship went this morning to Siboney as the Com- 
mander-in-Chief had an appointment to-day with General 
Shatter. The Commander-in-Chief being unable to go, the 
Chief of Staff and Assistant Chief of Staff went out to head- 
quarters, being met at Siboney landing by an escort and 
horses. The distance out is about seven miles over a road 
very rough in places, and through a very broken country. 
One can only wonder that an army was allowed to reach the 
outskirts of Santiago with so little resistance. 

As one approaches Santiago the rough hills subside 
into a plain. The headquarters are about three miles out- 
side Santiago. A short ride from there to a knoll named 
from a neighboring well, El Pozo, gives an excellent view 
of our lines, which are now drawn in closely to the town, 
from a point about southeast to one west of north. The 
right wing is held by General Garcia and, it is said, the 
city is now entirely cut off from the westward. The invest- 
ment has certainly become very close. The mortars were 
being planted yesterday in preparation for bombardment. 
The little river San Juan, has been a most efficient aid to 
our troops, furnishing a good and a moderately abundant 
supply of water. The men are sheltered by small fly tents, 
so low, however, that one cannot stand upright in them. 
They have made, of course, various shifts to meet their 
needs, and seem to have come to an appreciation of the 
Cuban shelter of palm leaves. 

•While there the exchange of prisoners took place by 
which Mr. Hobson and the men accompanying him were 
returned. They came on board in the evening. 

The flagship returned to her station about 10 p. m. 



4 g SQUADRON BULLETINS 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 25. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Thursday, July 7, 1898. 
The Massachusetts and Texas paid a visit to the 
wrecks of the Oquendo and Infanta Maria Teresa. 

An effort was made by the flagship to communicate with 
General Cebreco at Guayacabon and deliver some provi- 
sions for the Cuban troops, but without avail ; the where- 
abouts of none of his force could be discovered. It was 
important to communicate with him in order to inform him 
as to the existence of a truce which was to last, under 
certain circumstances, until noon of the ninth. The basis 
of this was the following letter from General Shafter to the 
Spanish Commanded-in-Chief. 

Headquarters 5th Army Corps. 

Camp near Sax Juan River, Cuba. 
The General-in-Chief, July 6th, 1898. 

Commanding the Spanish Forces, 
Santiago de Cuba. 
Sir: 

1.— In view of the events of the 3rd instant I have the 
honor to lay before your Excellency certain propositions 
to which I trust your Excellency will give the consideration 
which, in my opinion, they deserve. 

2.— I enclose a Bulletin of the engagement of Sunday 
morning which resulted in the complete destruction of Ad- 
miral Cevera's fleet, the loss of 600 of his officers and men 
and the capture of the remainder. The Admiral, General 
Paredes and all others who escaped alive are now prisoners 
on board the Harvard and St. Louis, and the latter ship, 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 49 

in which are the Admiral, General Paredes and the surviv- 
ing Captains (all except the Captain of the Almirante 
Oquendo, who was slain,), has already sailed for the 
United States. If desired by you, this may be confirmed 
by your Excellency sending an officer under a flag of truce 
to Admiral Sampson and he can arrange to visit the Har- 
vard, which will not sail until to-morrow, and obtain the 
details from Spanish officers and men aboard that ship. 

3. — Our fleet is now perfectly free to act, and I have the 
honor to state that, unless a surrender be arranged by noon 
of the 9th instant, a bombardment of the city will be begun 
and continued by the heavy guns of our ships. The city is 
within easy range of these guns, the eight-inch being cap- 
able of firing nine thousand five hundred yards, the thir- 
teen-inch, of course, much farther. The ships can so lie 
that with a range of eight thousand yards they can reach 
the center of the city. 

4. — I make this suggestion of a surrender purely in a 
humanitarian spirit. I do not wish to cause the slaughter 
of any more men either of your Excellency's forces or my 
own ; the final result, under circumstances so disadvan- 
tageous to your Excellency, being a foregone conclusion. 

5. — As your Excellency may wish to make reference of 
so momentous a question to your Excellency's home gov- 
ernment, it is for this purpose that I have placed the time of 
the resumption of hostilities sufficiently far in the future 
to allow a reply being received. 

6. — I beg an early answer from your Excellency. 

I have the honor to be your Excellency's obedient ser- 
vant, 

William R. Shafter, Major-General, U. S. V. 
Commanding 5th Army Corps. 



50 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

During the evening the Commander-in-Chief was in- 
formed, by letter from General Shafter, that the Spanish 
Commander had decided to refer the question to Madrid. 

Commodore Watson shifted his broad pennant from the 
Oregon to the Newark. 

The Brooklyn, flying the broad pennant of Commo- 
dore Schley, returned from Guantanamo. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 26. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, ( I BA. 



Friday, July 8, 1898. 

The flagship left at 2 a. m. for Guantanamo for coal and 
provisions. 

The Castine and Wilmington arrived with a convoy of 
2,500 troops, which were sent on to Siboney. The Re- 
lief, Army hospital ship, also came and went on to the 
same place. 

The Harvard, Iowa, Oregon, Marblehead, Dixie, 
Solace, Resolute, Celtic, Vulcan, Niagara, Scor- 
pion, Vixen, Osceola, Dupont and Rodgers and the 
British steamer Adula are at Guantanamo. The Scorpion 
left later in the day for her station off Cape Cruz. 

Several Army transports are also in port. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 27. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Saturday, July 9, 1898. 
The Massachusetts arrived at Guantanamo, being sub- 
stituted for the Iowa, in Commodore Watson's Squadron. 
It is probable the Iowa will go north for a much needed 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 5 1 

docking and overhauling. The Squadron will thus consist 
of the Massachusetts, Newark, Oregon, Dixie, Yan- 
kee and Yosemite. Those here (the four first) will be 
ready as soon as coaled ; the Yankee is at New York, re- 
ceiving stores and ammunition for the Squadron ; the 
Yosemite is off San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

The picket launches up Guantanamo Bay were fired on 
by the Spaniards near the fort, due to their having ventured 
beyond the fort. There were no casualties. No effort is 
made to dispossess the Spaniards of the upper part of the 
bay, as we have no use for it, and they must, eventually, 
surrender in any case for want of food. Intercepted letters 
give a very melancholy account of the want existing in 
Guantanamo. They are absolutely cut off from the West 
and have very little on which to subsist. An occasional 
soldier gives himself up, forced thereto by starvation. 

The Adula has been sent to Savannah as a prize. 

The Newark, with Commodore Watson's broad pen- 
nant, arrived at Guantanamo. 

The Osceola left for Daiquiri and Santiago. 

The Porter left for Key West, thence for Bristol, for 
repairs. 

The Spanish Commander in Santiago, in answer to our 
proposition of surrender, proposes to evacuate the city if 
he be allowed to retire, without molestation, as far as Hol- 
guin. 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 28. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Sunday, July 10, 1898. 
The Harvard left at 4.00 p. m. for Portsmouth, N. H., 
with prisoners. 



52 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

The St. Paul arrived with troops at Siboney. 

The New Orleans arrived at Guantanamo from Key 
West. 

The Solace was sent from Guantanamo to Sibouney to 
receive sick ; she will return to Guantanamo, take on coal, 
and go to Hampton Roads. 

The Army hospital ship Olivette left Guantanamo for 
Key West after coaling". 

The Army hospital ship Relief arrived at Sibouney. 

The lighter and provisions captured by the Scorpion 
and Osceola have been appraised for condemnation. This 
lighter was cast off near Cape Cruz by a steamer which 
had it in tow when chased. It is of iron and in excellent 
order. The provisions came from the United States via 
Kingston. The value of the lighter and provisions is con- 
siderable. 

The non-acceptance of the terms of capitulation offered 
the Spanish Commander in Santiago being received, a re- 
newal of hostilities and a bombardment by the Navy will 
take place. 

Arrangements for fitting out the Eastern Squadron are 
now progressing rapidly. The only detention will arise 
from the want of facilities for coaling. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 29. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Monday, July ii, 1898. 
The Columbia arrived with three hundred and twenty- 
five troops, the Yale with fifteen hundred. General Miles 
and General Garretson are on board the latter. The 
Hist came from Cape Cruz; the Helena from Cienfuegos, 
both for coal. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 53 

The New York, Brooklyn and Indiana, in continua- 
tion of the bombardment by the Brooklyn, Texas and 
Indiana of the previous evening-, bombarded the city of 
Santiago from near Aguadores, firing eight-inch shell only. 
The firing was reported from the signal station ashore as 
being very good ; some of the shell, however, fell in the 
water. This was due to overcare against shelling our own 
lines to the eastward of the town. The shelling ceased at i 
o'clock, at which hour a flag of truce was sent into Santi- 
ago. No firing has taken place since. 

An unusually heavy rain set in in the afternoon, which 
continued with little cessation well into the night. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 30. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Tuesday, July 12, 1898. 

Nothing of importance occurred in the fleet. The New 
York, Broklyn, Indiana, Texas, Wilmington, Glou- 
cester, Vesuvius, Suwanee and Vixen were present. The 
Helena and Hist came in from the south coast blockade 
and proceeded to Guantanamo. 

The Yale, St. Paul and Columbia remained in the 
vicinity of Siboney with troops aboard. 

The Machias went to Guantanamo for coal and thence 
to North blockade. 

The flagship stood down to Siboney and communi- 
cated with the St. Paul and Yale. 

The Osceola came from Daiquiri, where she had taken 
water, and proceeded to the Cape Cruz station. 



54 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 31. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Wednesday, July 13, 1898. 

The Oregon, flying Commodore Watson's broad pen- 
nant, and the Massachusetts arrived from Guantanamo, 
with the object of opening a bombardment of Santiago with 
13-inch guns; the truce established the previous day held 
this up. 

There were present during the day the New York, Ore- 
gon, Brooklyn, Massachusetts, Indiana, Gloucester, 
Suwanee and Vixen. The Texas was at Rio Tarquino 
looking after securing the Colon from sliding off the bank 
on which she rests into deep water. The wrecking tug 
Merritt arrived and went down to the Colon. A tele- 
gram has been received that the Potomac, a large and 
powerful armed tug, with extensive wrecking facilities, had 
also been ordered to assist in the work. 

The Suwanee went westward to bring to the New York 
Colonel Cebreco, with reference to discussing a landing 
west of the harbor. Colonel Cebreco states that there are 
no Spanish troops west excepting at the Socapa and at 
Cabanitas Bay (a small bay within Santiago Bay, on the 
west side about one-third the way from the entrance). Pro- 
visions were put aboard the Suwanee for Colonel Cebre- 
co's men, of whom he states he has a thousand. 

The Wilmington arrived from Guantanamo and left for 
the southern blockade off Manzanillo. 

Negotiations looking to a surrender of Santiago con- 
tinued. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 55 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 32. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Thursday, July 14, 1898. 

The Commander-in-Chief received word from the Army- 
Headquarters at 1.30 that a surrender was probable, that 
negotiations were advancing and desiring that a naval repre- 
sentative be present as had been requested by the Com- 
mander-in-Chief. Before any steps could be taken, how- 
ever, word came that the surrender had been agreed upon. 

The Texas came from the stranded ships and later went 
to Guantanamo. There will be no difficulty in floating the 
Infanta Maria Teresa. Two large caissons of 2,000 tons 
each have been sent for to be used in lifting the Cristobal 
Colon. 

The Oregon, flying Commodore Watson's Broad Pen- 
nant, and the Massachusetts, left in the evening for Guan- 
tanamo. 

The French corvette Amiral Rigault de Genouilly, 
Commander Jules Neny, arrived from Martinique to render 
aid to the French Consul. She proceeded to Guantanamo. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 33. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Friday, July 15, 1898. 
The Celtic arrived from Guantanamo. 
The Helena arrived and proceeded to blockade off Cien- 
fuegos. 

Arrangements were in contemplation to land troops to 



56 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

the westward of the harbor entrance in case of a resumption 
of hostilities. 

The day was spent by the New York off the Aguadores 
signal station in communicating with the front. 

The New York, Brooklyn, Indiana, Gloucester and 
Vixen were off the port. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 34. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Saturday, July 16, 1898. 

The surrender of Santiago was finally assured to-day by 
the signing of the articles of capitulation, which are as 
follows : 

PRELIMINARY AGREEMENT for the capitulation 
of the Spanish Forces, which constitute the division of San- 
tiago de Cuba, occupying the territory herein set forth, 
said capitulation authorized by the Commander-in-Chief of 
the Island of Cuba, agreed to by General Toral and awaiting 
the approbation of the Government of Madrid and subject 
to the following conditions: 

Submitted by the undersigned Commissioners, Brigadier- 
General Don Frederick Escario, Lieutenant-Colonel of 
Staff Don Ventura Fontan and Mr. Robert Mason, of the 
City of Santiago de Cuba, representing General Toral, 
Commanding Spanish Forces, to Major-General Joseph 
Wheeler, U.S.V., Major-General H. W. Lawton, U.S.V., 
and 1st Lieutenant J. D. Miley, 2d Artillery, A.D.C., repre- 
senting General Shafter, Commanding American Forces, 
for the capitulation of the Spanish Forces comprised in that 
portion of the Island of Cuba east of a line passing through 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 57 

Aserraderos Dos Palmas, Palma Soriano, Cauto Abajo, Es- 
condida, Tanamo and Aguilera, said territory being known 
as the Eastern District of Santiago, Commanded by General 
Jose Toral. 

i. That pending arrangements for capitulation all hos- 
tilities between American and Spanish Forces in this Dis- 
trict shall absolutely and unequivocally cease. 

2. That this capitulation includes all the Forces and war 
material in said territory. 

3. That after the signing of the final capitulation the 
United States agrees, with little delay as possible, to trans- 
port all the Spanish troops in said District to the Kingdom 
of Spain, the troops as near as possible to embark at the 
port nearest the garrisons they now occupy. 

4. That the Officers of the Spanish Army be permitted 
to retain their side-arms and both Officers and enlisted men 
their personal property. 

5. That after final capitulation the Spanish authorities 
agree without delay to remove or assist the American Navy 
in removing all mines and other obstructions to navigation 
now in the Harbor of Santiago and its mouth. 

6. That after final capitulation the Commander of the 
Spanish Forces deliver without delay a complete inventory 
of all arms and ammunitions of war of the Spanish Forces, 
and a roster of the said Forces now in above described Dis- 
trict to the Commander of the American Forces. 

7. That the Commander of the Spanish Forces, in leav- 
ing said District, is authorized to carry with him all the 
military archives and records pertaining to the Spanish 
Army now in said District. 

8. That all of that portion of the Spanish Forces known 
as Volunteers, Mobilizados and Guerillas, who wish to re- 



58 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

main in the Island of Cuba, are permitted to do so under 
parole not to take up arms against the United States during 
the continuance of the present war between Spam and the 
United States, delivering up their arms. 

9. That the Spanish Forces will march out of Santiago 
de Cuba, with honors of war, depositing their arms there- 
after at a point mutually agreed upon, to await their disposi- 
tion by the United States Government, it being understood 
that the United States Commissioners will recommend that 
the Spanish soldier return to Spain with the arms he so 
bravely defended. 

ENTERED INTO this fifteenth day of July, eighteen 
hundred and ninety-eight, by the undersigned Commis- 
sioners, acting under instructions from their respective 
Commanding Generals. 
Signed : 

Joseph Wheeler, Major-Gen. Vols. 

H. W. Lawton, Major-Gen. Vols. 

J. D. Milev, 1st Lieut. 2d Art., A. D. C. 

Frederick Escario. 

Ventura Fontan. 

Robt. Mason. 



HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY. 

On board U. S. S. Yale, off Siboney. 
Admiral Sampson, July 16, 1898. 

Commanding U. S. Naval Forces in Cuban Waters. 
Sir: 

There appears to be a little delay in the full surrender of 
the Santiago garrison, which I attribute more to formalities 
than anything else. There can be no doubt of the purpose 
of the Spanish to surrender. They did so, in fact, in a 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 59 

formal, positive manner. The terms of capitulation were 
agreed to, and have been signed by the Commissioners of 
both Armies. At the request of the Spanish officials delay 
has been granted until they can hear from Madrid, which 
they seem positive will bring confirmation of their action. 
I hope the desired result will soon be a matter of fact, and 
am glad that the Navy has been able to contribute such an 
important part. 

A copy of the agreement of capitulation signed by the 
Commissioners is herewith enclosed for your information. 
Very respectfully, 

Nelson A. Miles, 
Major-General, Commanding. 



As this includes all the garrisons east of the line men- 
tioned, the number of troops surrendered will amount to 
about 24,000, half of which are probably Spanish born, and 
must, under the stipulations, be returned to Spain. The 
surrender carries with it, of course, all Spanish shipping, 
among which are two small gunboats — sister ships — the 
Alvarado, at Santiago, and the Sandoval, at Guanta- 
namo. 

The act of surrender was arranged for 9 a. m. to-morrow 
morning, at which hour the Spanish flag is to be hauled 
down and the American hoisted. 

Major-General Miles visited the New York at 11, ac- 
companied by General Garretson and Colonel Clous. 

The Detroit arrived from Cienfuegos and went on to 
Guantanamo. 

The New York anchored in the bight at Aguadores in 
seven fathoms. This is a very fair anchorage, with smooth 
sandy bottom. 



60 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 35. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Sunday, July 17, 1898. 

The ships of the Squadron moved in, early, toward the 
harbor entrance. Boats were sent in under Lieutenant 
Capehart to arrange about the lifting of the mines. Four 
of the Observation mines were found to be in good order 
and four of the Contact (Bustamente). Test showed five 
Observation mines not in order. Orders were given to fire 
these Observation mines which could be exploded. The 
Navigating Lieutenant and a petty officer of the Rkixa 
Mercedes came on board about noon with Lieutenant 
Capehart to give some explanations regarding the mines, 
and later the Lieutenant commanding the Alvarado ar- 
rived, who had laid the mines and in whose charge they 
were. The Contact mines to the west of- the Merrimac 
had been removed to allow the Spanish squadron to leave ; 
the four still down were to the east of the wreck. The 
Observation mines, still in condition, were fired ; the others 
and the remaining Contact mines which do not close the 
channel, will be taken up to-morrow. 

A prize crew was put aboard the Alvarado, a small, 
very fast gunboat of 100 tons, no feet long, and aboard 
five other ships varying from 1,800 to 3,000 tons, in the 
harbor. 

The first vessel to go in was the Red Cross ship Texas, 
which entered about 4 p. m. 

The Indiana went to Guantanamo. 

The Manning arrived from Guantanamo and went on to 
the Cape Cruz blockade. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 6l 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 36. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Monday, July 18, 1898. 

An official visit was made by Rear-Admiral Sampson and 
Commodore Schley, accompanied by several of their staffs, 
to General Shafter, leaving, in the Vixen, at 8 o'clock. 

A number of officers visited the batteries. 

The Iowa arrived from Guantanamo. 

The Vesuvius went to Guantanamo to retube boilers and 
overhaul. 

The Potomac arrived and went to assist in floating the 
Infanta Maria Teresa. 

The Annapolis, Wasp and Leyden were sent to take 
Port Nipe. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 37. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, OFF SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CUBA. 



Tuesday, July 19, 1898. 

The New York, Brooklyn, Indiana, Gloucester and 
Vixen laid off the entrance of Santiago harbor during the 
day. The Ericsson came up from Guantanamo with a 
number of officers, and with the Vixen went in with a 
number of officers to visit the points about the harbor. The 
Ericsson returned to Guantanamo in the afternoon. 

Work continued upon the lifting of the mines, the status 
of which, as reported by Lieutenant Capehart, who was in 
charge of the work, is now as follows : 



62 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

After three days work seven contact mines have been 
secured, placed on the beach and dismantled. Two electric 
mines were exploded, two failed to fire, opposite the So- 
capa controlling station. To the eastward of the Merri- 
mac there remains one contact mine on a line from her 
mainmast to a small cave on the beach, easily distinguish- 
able. The approximate position of this mine is shown by 
two white cork buoys lashed together. The mine is un- 
doubtedly on the bottom, as it sank, and carried its buoy 
with it. There is, therefore, little possible danger if it re- 
mains where it is from this on. On this same range, close 
under the counter of the Merrimac, there is another con- 
tact mine which sank; but, as the Merrimac masks it com- 
pletely at the present time there is no danger from it. 

The five electric mines controlled by the Estrella Bat- 
tery station were fired at the Merrimac; it is thought that 
all exploded. But to make absolutely sure that there was 
nothing dangerous at that point the keyboard was taken 
away and the cable broken. This was also done to the two 
other firing stations on the west bank. 

The French steamer Amiral Rigault de Genouilly 
arrived from Guantanamo and went into port. 

Two of the transports going into the harbor grounded in 
the channel but got off. 

The small gunboat Alvarado, one of the prizes captured 
in the harbor, is in excellent condition. Drawing but seven 
feet of water she will be valuable for inshore service. She 
is very fast, being laid down in "Clowes' Naval Pocket 
Book" as 19 knots. She is no feet long, 15 feet 6 inches 
beam. She carries a battery of one 6-pdr. rapid-fire gun 
and a Nordenfeldt machine gun. The Sandoval, at the 
harbor of Guantanamo Bay, is a sister ship. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 63 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 38. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Wednesday, July 20, 1898. 

The Flagship left Santiago at 4 a. m. for Guantanamo, 
arriving there at 8 o'clock. Found the following vessels 
in port: — Oregon (with Commodore Watson's broad pen- 
nant), Massachusetts, Indiana, Texas, Columbia, New- 
ark, Detroit, Marblehead, Yale, Dixie, Hawk, Glou- 
cester, DUPONT, RODGERS, ERICSSON, VESUVIUS, SAMO- 

set, Alvarado, Celtic, Vulcan and a number of Army 
transports. 

The Commander-in-Chief visited the Yale for the pur- 
pose of consultation with General Miles. 

At 5 p. m. the Suwanee came in from the westward con- 
voying the five Spanish steamers surrendered at Santiago. 

The Mexico and Reina de Los Angeles are fine ships, 
the latter being similar in character to the Olivette, and 
quite newly built at Wilmington, Del. 

The Hawk left for Key West. 

The following are copies of telegrams forwarded from the 
Department: 

New York, July 5, 1898. 
Commodore A. S. Crowninshield, 
Navy Department, 

Washington, D. C. 

"Our Navy brings new honors to the Nation. We all 
join in congratulations and best wishes." — Horace L. 
Hotchkiss. 



64 squadron bulletins 

Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Mich., 

July 4, 1898. 
Hon. John D. Long, 

Secretary of the Navy, 

Washington, D. C. 
"The Kentucky Press Association, in session at Mackinac, 
requests you to convey to Admiral Sampson its congratu- 
lations upon the magnificent victory of the American fleet 
at Santiago, which event we celebrate upon this joyous 
anniversary of American Independence." — H. E. Wool- 
folk, President. 

Santa Cruz, California. 

July 4, 1898. 
Hon. John D. Long, 

Washington, D. C. 
"All California rejoicing to-day over our brilliant vic- 
tories. That our glorious Navy under your wise adminis- 
tration be continually blessed with success, is the prayer and 
hope of our people." — Frank McLaughlin, Chairman, 
Republican State Central Committee. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 39. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Thursday, July 21, 1898. 

The Potomac went to the Spanish wrecks to assist in 
floating the Infanta Maria Teresa. 

The Yankee arrived from New York. 

The Yankton arrived from the Cienfuegos blockade. 

The Iowa arrived from off Santiago. 

The Terror arrived from Key West, coaled and pro- 
ceeded to Puerto Rico. 



ERRATUM 



The name of the Topeka unfortunately 
omitted should be added to the list of ships 
present at the action in Port Nipe, mentioned 
in the Bulletin of July 22nd, p. 65. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 65 

At 3 the Massachusetts, Columbia, Yale, Dixie, 
Gloucester and the Army transport Macon sailed for 
Puerto Rico; other transports left later. In addition to the 
men-of-war named the Puritan, Terror, Amphitrite, 
Cincinnati, Montgomery, Annapolis, Wasp and Ley- 
den en route to Puerto Rico; the New Orleans is 
already there on the San Juan blockade. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 40. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Friday, July 22, 1898. 

A flag of truce was sent up the bay in the Marblehead's 
launch to communicate with the Spanish post. It returned 
in company with a Spanish steam launch and brought the 
Commander of the Sandoval and the Chief of Staff to Gen- 
eral Pareja. Their visit was with reference to the wish of 
the Admiral to give to the people of Guantanamo some corn 
and flour. 

The Dupont returned at 6 a. m. from Port Nipe where 
she had been sent to carry orders to the Annapolis, Wasp 
and Leyden to proceed to Puerto Rico. She brought dis- 
patches from the Annapolis stating these three had en- 
tered Nipe Bay and had sunk the Spanish gunboat Jorge 
Juan, of 935 tons, length 203 feet, beam 30 feet, draft 12 
feet 1,100 H.P. Armament: three 6.2-inch, two 2.9-inch, two 
machine guns ; complement, 146. Information was also re- 
ceived from the Prairie of the withdrawal of the Spanish 
troops from Jibara, from which there is a railway to Hol- 
guin. The Prairie remains off the town to preserve order. 
This is one of the commanding points of Eastern Cuba; 



66 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

with this and Manzanillo commanded, as it is, it is difficult 
to see how the large body of Spanish troops at Holguin can 
fail to surrender. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 41. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUAXTAXAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Saturday, July 23, 1898. 

The Cincinnati arrived from Key West enroute to Puer- 
to Rico, for which she will leave as soon as coaled, which 
will probably be to-morrow evening. 

The Fern, which has been fitted as a migratory post- 
office, also arrived from Key West via the North blockade, 
with mails. 

Information has been received of the chasing ashore and 
burning of the Transatlantic steamer Santo DOMINGO, of 
Barcelona, by the Eagle, Lieutenant Southerland, on the 
12th instant, in the bight between the Isle of Pines and 
Cape Frances. This was a ship of about 2,800 tons register, 
armed with two 4.7-inch guns with a crew of four officers 
and seventy-eight men. She carried sixty-six passengers. 
She had in her hold two 12-inch guns and was heavily 
loaded with munitions of war, live stock, food supplies and 
clothing. Her value is estimated at about 1,000,000 dollars. 

This makes the third valuable ship of this line destroyed 
since June 28th, when the Antonio Lopez, 3,709 tons reg- 
ister, was driven ashore near San Juan, Puerto Rico, by the 
Yosemite, Commander Emory, and wrecked. About a 
week later the Alfonso XII, of 5,206 tons register, was 
driven ashore by the Hawk, Lieutenant Hood, in attempt- 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 6j 

ing to enter Havana. The following is a translation of an 
account of the occurrence from a Cienfuegos paper: 

Cienfuegos, Cuba, July, '98. 

Yesterday, says "El Correo" of Havana, there arrived the sur- 
vivors of the fine Transatlantic Steamer Alphonso XII, scuttled 
in the waters of Mariel. 

With the natural desire to know something which would calm 
the anxiety of the public, we interviewed the survivors and ascer- 
tained that they were rendered nearly insensible by fatigue and 
anxiety, their feet sore from walking from the head of the valley of 
Mariel to Guanajay, and their hands badly lacerated in the violent 
futile effort to save the cargo. 

We will faithfully relate that which occurred, reserving what, in 
our judgment, it is not permitted to give to the public, and which 
might serve as advice to our enemies. 

The Alphonso XII was fitted out in Cadiz with six cannon and 
the necessary crew and three marine companies and other necessary 
articles. In twenty days I had hoped to make port and land the 
cannon and troops immediately. I navigated the Alphonso XII 
witli hope in God and in the valor of my own crew. I ran with 
all possible speed to the Heights of Cienfuegos, where came out 
three cruisers of the enemy. Seeing these the Alphonso XII 
took flight towards the Isle of Pines, in which waters I lost sight 
of my pursuers. 

Believing myself now free from pursuit I laid my course directly 
towards Havana, with full intentions of making that harbor; when 
eight miles distant the course was intercepted by three other 
cruisers, which I was unable to encounter. The American cruisers 
took position: Port, starboard and ahead. I then steered the 
Alphonso toward Mariel, where I hoped to enter with the ex- 
clusive object of disembarking. 

I decided to save the cargo, which was the object in our coming, 
in order to land the provisions and cargo on the island. 

I saw an embarrassing situation; the Yankees began throwing 
shells, which landed in all directions around the ship, which proves 
what we have said a thousand times, that the Americans are not ar- 
tillerists and the Christs of the earth; of the hundreds of projectiles 
thrown at Alphonso XII only eight struck the ship, and this cor- 



68 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

roborates our opinion of their bad training. Then Captain Moret 
ordered the cargo to be thrown overboard in order that some might 
float ashore, which was only a pistol-shot distant. We got out a 
boat and prepared to torpedo the ship. I saw the Americans would 
not delay destroying the fine ship; thereupon I placed an explosive 
bomb between the two funnels of the Alphonso XII and in- 
stantly blew up the ship in a column of smoke so dense and so 
black that it appeared like an immense cloud, obscuring the atmos- 
phere and making breathing difficult. In this moment of dejection 
corrosive liquid fire enveloped the ship and lapped up the wood like 
a hungry serpent. The crew, being hopeless, had time only to 
jump into the water to escape this fiery furnace. Thus was con- 
sumed the best ship of the Transatlantic Co. and the Pride of the 
Fleet. 

The Brooklyn, flying Commodore Schley's broad pen- 
nant, and the Vixen, arrived in the evening. 

A Spanish launch and lighter came down from Caima- 
nera, by arrangement, and took on board a quantity of corn 
and flour from the lighter captured lately off Cape Cruz, 
for the use of the needy citizens of Guantanamo. 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 42. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Sunday, July 24, 1898. 

The Cincinnati left in the afternoon for Tuerto Rico. 

The Resolute arrived from New York, leaving there on 
the 19th. She brought a number of nurses for the Army, 
and a quantity of stores and ammunition. 

The Saratoga arrived from Santiago with an Officer 
from General Shafter to receive the surrender of the Span- 
ish troops in the Guantanamo District. 

A Colonel of Engineers on the Staff of the General Com- 
manding the Guantanamo District, General Pereja, and two 
Officers on the Staff of General Toral, connected with 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 69 

carrying out the details of capitulation called on board the 
Flagship. 

The Panama, captured off Havana and now in the serv- 
ice as an Army transport, passed to the eastward during the 
afternoon. 

The Board appointed to report upon the effect of the dis- 
tant shell-fire from the ships against Santiago town has 
about completed its work. 

Twelve houses were completely wrecked inside, of these 
one was burned. 

Sixteen 8-inch shells struck within three blocks on the 
Calle de Marina; these excavated the ground to a depth of 
about four feet and about ten feet in length. The street was 
macadamized. It is judged from the fact that many of them 
struck near the water's edge that a number of shell must 
have gone into the bay. 

The officers detailed to observe the fall of the shell stated 
that thirty or forty went beyond the northern edge of the 
bay into the Spanish lines. A dozen or more of the shells 
had not exploded ; in four of them the base had been simply 
blown out. In one case a 4-inch shell, which was probably 
a stray shell fired during the demonstration at Aguadores 
July 1 st, had gone through a tree and exploded in the 
ground beyond. 

When the severe effect of the 8-inch shell is considered, 
it is a matter for congratulation that it was not necessary to 
continue the bombardment longer and fire 13-inch shells as 
the Squadron had prepared to do. The effect of these latter 
would undoubtedly have been of a most disastrous charac- 
ter to the town. 

The most easterly fall observed was about three squares 
to the west of the Cathedral. 



JO SQUADRON BULLETINS 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 43- 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Monday, July 25, 1898. 

The Texas sailed at 6 o'clock in the evening for New 
York. 

The Montgomery arrived in the morning, and left at 
4.30, with the collier Southery to coal monitors. 

The Prairie arrived at 3 p. m. from the north blockade. 

The Suwanee went to Santiago to complete the raising 
of the mines. 

The five merchant steamers captured at Santiago were 
sent in convoy of the Vixen to be turned over to the Army 
for transport purposes. 

The Resolute went to Santiago. 

Colonel Ewers, of the Army, went to Guantanamo to 
arrange for the surrender of the Spanish troops there. 

The brilliant action in which the Wilmington, Helena, 
Scorpion, Hist, Hornet, Wompatuck and Osceola 
took part on July 18th at Manzanillo failed, through inad- 
vertance, to appear in an earlier Bulletin. 

They rendezvoused at Guaybal on the evening of the 
17th. At 7.30 a. m. on the 18th the Wilmington and 
Helena entered the northern channel towards Manzanillo, 
the Scorpion and Osceola the mid-channel between two 
Cays not shown on the chart; the Hist, Hornet and 
Wompatuck entered by the south entrance, the movements 
being timed to come within the range of the shipping about 
the same time. Fire was opened at 7.50, and lasted two 
hours and a half. Three transports, the El Gloria, Jose 
Garcia and the Purissima Concepcion were burned and 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 71 

destroyed. The Ponton, which is the harbor guard and 
store-ship, was burned and blown up. Three gunboats were 
destroyed ; one driven ashore and sunk, and another driven 
ashore and believed to have been disabled. 

The fire was opened and maintained beyond the range of 
the shore artillery known to be there; but, by gradually 
closing in, the shore batteries and field artilleries were able 
to open fire at comparatively short range. 

No casualties occurred on board. 

Great care was taken to do as little damage as possible 
to the city. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 44- 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Tuesday, July 26, 1898. 

The Hist arrived from Cape Cruz blockade. 

The Niagara arrived from Key West with a schooner of 
Georges Creek coal in tow. She had on board a quantity 
of stores and provisions. 

General Howard and several Army nurses arrived by 
her. 

The Vixen arrived from Santiago. 

The Marblehead went up the bay for the purpose of tak- 
ing up mines. Thirteen contact mines were raised ; all of 
them in bad condition on account of the quantity of barn- 
acles. They have been down since April. The largest 
quantity was found on the lever, so that it could not be 
moved at all. 

The Sandoval was found sunk in from three and a half 
to four fathoms of water. It is thought that there will not 



72 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

be much difficulty in raising her, with the sugar lighters 
at Caimanera. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 45. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Wednesday, July -zy, 1898. 

The Supply arrived from New York, leaving there on 
the 2 1 st. She brought a large quantity of stores and gen- 
eral supplies for the ships, and provisions and groceries for 
sales on account of a private firm. 

The Vixen left for Santiago with General Howard, nurses 
and Army mail from the Niagara. 

The Prairie left at 9 p. m. for Puerto Rico. 

The Cuban forces broke camp, on both sides of the bay, 
and were transported by the Samoset and some of our other 
boats to Caimanera, where they are to serve as garrison. 

The Marblehead completed the work of removing the 
mines. 

News arrived of the landing of General Miles' forces at 
Port Guanica, about twenty-five miles west of Ponce on the 
south side of Cuba. No resistance encountered. 

News was received from our Naval Attache at Paris that 
the Pelayo's machinery is in bad condition, and that :he 
Numancia is not in good order. They have gone to Car- 
thagena for repairs. 

The following is a translation of a telegram sent the 12th 
of July by General Linares: 

OFFICIAL CABLEGRAM— JULY 12, 1898. 
To the General Commanding and the Minister of War: 

Although confined to my bed by serious illness and acute pain, 
I am so much affected by the suffering of the troops that I think 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 73 

I should communicate with Your Excellency and the Minister of 
War explaining the real condition of affairs. 

The possessions of the enemy, very near the square of our dis- 
trict, show to plain sight the earthworks built up. 

Our weakened troops, a large portion sick, are not sent to the 
hospitals, as it is necessary to keep them in the trenches. 

Stock is without food or forage. 

In the heavy rain storms the rain falls for twenty hours without 
stopping in the ditches of the trenches; the soldiers have no shel- 
ter, and have nothing to eat but rice, and cannot change or wash 
their clothes. 

Losses are considerable; chiefs and officers, dead wounded and 
sick, deprive our forces of necessary direction in critical moments. 

In these conditions it is impossible to break through, as to at- 
tempt it would diminish our contingent a third part by the men 
who could not go, and it would be lessened also by losses which 
would be occasioned by the enemy, resulting finally in a true de- 
feat, without accomplishing, as Your Excellency desires, the salva- 
tion of our wasted battalions. 

To escape under the protection of the division from Holguin it 
is necessary that they should come and break the enemy's lines. 
It would take them eight days to come, and they ought to bring 
with them a great quantity of rations, which they will not be able 
to transport. 

The solution fatally imposes itself; surrender is inevitable, and 
we can only prolong the agony. Sacrifice is useless, which the 
enemy understands. They perceive our condition and have well 
established the investment; they will use up our strength without 
affecting their own, as was done yesterday, cannonading us on 
shore from such an elevation that we were unable to see their bat- 
teries, and by sea from the squadron, which has a perfect range 
and bombards the city by sections with mathematical precision. 

Santiago de Cuba is not Gerona, a walled city, a piece of terri- 
tory of the metropolis, defended hand-to-hand by its own children 
without distinction — old men, women and children, who encour- 
aged, aided and hazarded their own lives, moved by the sacred 
idea of independence and with the hope of help they might receive. 

Here is solitude; a total emigration of the population, insular as 



74 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

well as peninsular, including the public officials, with rare excep- 
tions. 

The clergy only remains, which now pretends to go out with 
their flock to the front. These defenders do not now begin a cam- 
paign full of enthusiasm and energy, but come, having struggled 
three years against climate, privations and fatigues, and it presents 
itself in these sad conditions, when they already have not vigor of 
mind or physical force, nor means to regain them. 

The ideal is lacking to them, for they are defending the property 
of those that abandoned it in their presence and that have allied 
themselves with the American forces. 

The Honor of Arms has its limits, and I appeal to the judgment 
of the government and the entire nation if their suffering troops 
have not upheld it satisfactorily many times since the 18th of May. 
when they suffered the first cannonade. 

If is is necessary that some one should be sacrificed for reasons 
that I am unacquainted with, or if there is some one needed to 
assume the responsibility of the result, foreseen and announced by 
me in different telegrams, I offer myself loyally at the altars of my 
country for the one and for the other, and I will charge myself 
with the authority for the act of consenting to surrender, for my 
modest reputation is of little value when treating of national in- 
terests. LINARES. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN NO. 46. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO HAY, CUBA 



Thursday. July 28, 1898. 

The Resolute returned from Santiago at 1 p. m., the 
Vixen at 4.50 and the Suwanee at 5.20 from the same 
place. The Suwanee finished lifting the mines, all being- 
recovered except one under the wreck of the Merrimac. 

The Samoset took the captured iron-lighter to Santiago 
for fresh water. It is expected that this lighter will trans- 
port 45,000 gallons. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 75 

The torpedo-boat Dupont, which left the 24th at 11.30 
p. m. for the west to carry despatches, returned the after- 
noon of the 27th. In going she overhauled the English 
steamer Dee, which asked to go into Santiago. She arrived 
at Cienfuegos 11.30 p. m. the 25th, and in the morning went 
to Trinidad in search of the blockading ships. She re- 
mained there until noon, then went off Cay Breton, where 
she spoke the Helena and Osceola. She returned to 
Guantanamo, arriving the afternoon of the 27th, having 
steamed about 800 miles. This boat has steamed over 
12,000 knots since September 23rd last. 

The following telegram was received by the Associated 
Press Correspondent at Santiago from the New York office: 
— "Washington Official Bulletin. Spain, directly to Mc- 
Kinley, through French Ambassador, formally sues for 
peace." 

The Mayflower sailed to-day from Key West for 
Guantanamo Bay. 

The collier Saturn arrived at Mole St. Nicholas and was 
ordered to Puerto Rico. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 47. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Friday, July 29, 1898. 
The Commander-in-Chief paid a visit in the Yankee to 
the Infanta Maria Teresa. The ship now has steam on 
one of her boilers and is using her own pumps to keep free 
of water. There is still one small leak, well forward, the ori- 
gin of which is not yet discovered. She is free for about 
seventy feet of her length aft, and is expected to come off 



j6 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

almost at any time. She will be brought here, her engines 
cleaned and overhauled, and will probably go north under 
her own steam. 

The Yankee returned at 5.30. 

Information was received from the Navy Department 
that an advance expedition to raise the Cristobal Colon 
started to-day; pontoons and air-bags follow. 

Word also came from Washington that the Spanish 
steamer Montserrat had entered Matanzas with a large 
cargo. 

The Brooklyn completed the work of putting in place 
the new five-inch mounts which came for her in the Ar- 
meria. 

The following telegram was received late in the evening 
from the Commanding Officer of the Massachusetts: 

U. S. S. Massachusetts, ist Rate, 
Dated St. Thomas, July 29th. 

Port Ponce, Puerto Rico, July 28th. 

Sent Commander Davis with Dixie, Annapolis, Wasp, 
Gloucester from Guanica 2 p. m. July 27th, blockade 
Ponce, capture lighters for use; Army of Ponce and Plava 
surrendered Commander Davis upon demand 12.30 a. m., 
July 28th. Spanish Garrison evacuated, provisionary 
articles of surrender until occupation by Army garrison to 
be allowed to retire; 2, civil government remain in force; 
3, police and fire brigade to be maintained without arms ; 4, 
captains of Port not to be made prisoners. Arrived Ponce 
from Guanica with Massachusetts, Cincinnati, General 
Miles, General Wilson, transports, 6.40 a. m.; 28th, com- 
menced landing Army in captured sugar lighters, no re- 
sistance, troops welcomed by inhabitants with great enthu- 
siasms. Captured 60 lighters, 20 sailing vessels, about 120 
tons of coal. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS JJ 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 48. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Saturday, July 30, 1898. 

The colliers Hannibal and Evelyn arrived during the 
morning and the Leonidas about 7 in the evening, all three 
from Lambert's Point, Norfolk. The Evelyn went along- 
side the Indiana; the Hannibal was sent to Ponce, Puer- 
to Rico. 

The Manning and Osceola arrived from the Cape Cruz 
blockading station for coal. The Yankton left at 4 p. m. 
for the Cienfuegos station. The Celtic sailed at 6 p. m. 
for New York. 

The Marblehead is at work raisins: the Sandoval. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 49. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Sunday, July 31, 1898. 

The captured Spanish steamer San Juan arrived this 
morning, and proceeded to Caimanera with supplies and 
some passengers from Santiago. 

The Mayflower arrived with mail for the Squadron and 
Army. 

The Samoset returned from Santiago with the cap- 
tured lighter, bringing 45,000 gallons of water. 

At 6 a. m. on July 20th, the Wilmington, Helena, 
Manning, Hist and Hornet went in close off Santa Cruz, 
and some 6-pounder shell were thrown at the blockhouse. 
As the western end of the town was reached, in which is 



j8 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

located the barracks of the soldiers, some shell were thrown 
at the buildings. Two circuits were made by the vessels, 
firing from each occurring as it came into position, on the 
two places mentioned. 

The only evidence of life about the entire place was upon 
the approach of the vessels, when some thirty soldiers from 
the blockhouse were observed to ferry themselves across a 
narrow stream by boats and dispersed among the trees. The 
town appeared to be absolutely deserted and no vessel of 
any description was visible. 

This appearance of the force off Santa Cruz was simply 
intended as a demonstration. It is evident from the absence 
of shipping throughout the waters in which these vessels 
have been that a great effect has been produced by their 
simple presence being known. The only means of 
transportation from Santa Cruz, either east or west, is by 
water, and it is not considered at present of any great im- 
portance so far as blockading is concerned, but it will be 
visited by some one of the vessels occasionally to keep it 
under observation. 

The following is from a report also by Commander Todd 
on July 2 ist: 

"Before leaving the vicinity of Manzanillo, General Rios, 
commanding the Cuban force south of that place, went on 
board the Hist, which was nearest in shore, and from infor- 
mation obtained from him the following appears to be the 
military status of Manzanillo: 

"There are about two thousand regulars, one thousand 
volunteers, five hundred bombarderos or firemen. They 
appear well supplied with cattle and provisions, but are 
believed to be short of ammunition. The recent events in 
that vicinity have caused them to become disheartened, and 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 79 

it is believed that the appearance of an enemy's force, even 
of a thousand men, would result in the capitulation of the 
place. 

"So far as forts are concerned they amount to little or 
nothing, except some field pieces temporarily located, be- 
longing to the Army ; it is said there are about twenty field- 
guns in the vicinity. 

"The last expedition there took them completely by sur- 
prise, and the people thought that an American force was 
landing to the south of the town, near Niquero. 

"The immediate country surrounding Manzanillo is fer- 
tile, and military operations could be readily carried on 
over it. The only high road leading out of Manzanillo goes 
to Bayamo; therefore, if a force of two thousand Cubans, 
well armed, should be quickly moved there and advanced 
upon Manzanillo, it is believed the capture of the city would 
result promptly, especially with a naval force in front of the 
city. At this season it would not be possible for the Span- 
ish troops to retreat to the northward or west by any road 
other than that of Bayamo, on account of the swollen 
streams. The general feeling of the Spanish forces in the 
vicinity is best shown by the fact that General Rios is en- 
camped within a few miles from the place with one hundred 
and fifty cavalry, and occasionally makes raids on the out- 
skirts of the town itself to obtain cattle belonging to the 
Spanish. The General states that five hundred additional 
men are now on the way from the interior to join him." 

It is reported by Commander Todd on July 24th, that in- 
formation obtained from fishermen by the Hist, it was 
learned that the Florida expedition for the relief of Gen- 
eral Gomez had been successful, and that the General was 
then encamped only five miles northwest from Jucaro. 



80 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

The Spaniards evacuated and burned the large block- 
house to the westward of Port Tunas, July 24th. 

The Spanish forces generally from Manzanillo to Trinidad 
are evidently in a very demoralized condition. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 50. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUAXTAXAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Moxday, August i, 1898, 

The Yankee left at 6:30 p. m. for Puerto Rico. 

The Nashville is now at Gibara, which place has been 
evacuated by the Spaniards, leaving some 400 sick. 

The following is a copy of a report by the Commanding 
Officer of the Nashville: 

"The Nashville arrived off Gibara July 26th, and found 
the Cuban flag flying over the fort and the public buildings. 

"A boat soon came off to this ship in which were Mr. 
Jose H. Beola, former commercial agent of the U. S., a 
pilot and a press reporter. Mr. Beola informed me that all 
Spanish troops under the command of Colonel Moreno left 
Gibara for Holguin at 6 a. m. on the 25th, and that at 9 a. 
m. on the same date 500 Cuban troops, under the com- 
mand of Lieutenant-Colonel Rojas, of the Ocujal regiment 
of infantry, marched into and took possession of the town. 

" I entered the harbor with the Nashville and anchored 
off the town. Captain Delgado, of the staff of Lieutenant- 
Colonel Rojas, came on board and brought me a letter from 
Colonel Rojas. 

"At about 2 p. m. General Feria, commanding this mili- 
tary division of the Cuban army, entered the town with an 



SQUADRON BULLETINS Ol 

escort of ioo cavalry. He sent two of his aides on board to 
inform me that he would call in person to-day. 

"About 4:30 p. m. Colonel Rojas with members of his 
staff and an interpreter by the name of Frank Gomez, an 
American citizen, and a Spanish surgeon who had been 
left by General Luque in charge of the military hospital 
here, made an official visit. The surgeon brought a letter 
from General Luque. He informed that there are 53 sick 
Spanish soldiers in the hospital, 2 surgeons, I pharmacist, 
34 nurses and four Spaniards who feigned to be sick and 
were left by the Spanish Commander in the hospital. Of 
the sick, 6 have the yellow fever, 12 the small-pox (all con- 
valescent), and the remainder, dysentery and malarial 
fevers. Rice, beans and peas for ten days and meat for three 
days were left for the use of the sick, and a good supply of 
medicines ; they have no milk, which is most needed for the 
sick. I informed the surgeon in charge, as also did Colonel 
Rojas, at my suggestion and in my presence, that he and 
the sick under his charge should be protected under the 
terms of the Geneva Convention. 

"Colonel Rojas informed that he had appointed on the 
25th Mr. Frank Gomez Captain of the Port ad interim, and 
a committee of nine citizens of the town to assist in preserv- 
ing order. There has been no disturbance of any kind up to 
the present time. 

"The town contains 6,000 inhabitants, from 600 to 700 
of whom are Spaniards loyal to Spain. About 50 Spanish 
citizens have left the place recently. The families of several 
of the officers of General Luque's army were left in Gibara. 
General Luque sent his family to Spain in the French 
steamer Chateau Lafitte some time ago. The health of 
the town is generally good, though small-pox is epidemic. 



82 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

"Provisions, especially flour, lard, rice, bread and bacon 
are greatly needed here both for the Cuban troops and the 
inhabitants of the town. The supplies for the Spanish sick 
will not last more than eight or ten days. The Spanish 
troops seized and took with them most of the stock of pro- 
visions on hand. 

"The Cubans claim to have between 3,000 and 4,000 
troops in this vicinity and about Holguin, to have torn up 
the railroad in two places between Gibara and Holguin. 
and to have all the approaches to Holguin guarded. 

"The two locomotives belonging to the railroad were 
taken to Holguin by the Spanish troops, but there is a small 
handcar here. 

"I found in the harbor two schooners, the Express de 
Gibara and the Gibara, of 152 and 155 tons respectfully, 
belonging to Antonio Lamella of Havana. They have been 
here for four months. Being enemy's property. I have 
taken possession of them. They were both in ballast and 
were in charge of a captain and a crew of seven men each. 

"The Gibara I send to Key West to-night in charge of 
Ensign C. F. Snow and a prize crew, and this dispatch. 

"I respectfully recommend that a considerable quantity of 
provisions of the kinds I have mentioned be sent here as 
soon as practicable for distribution to the sick Spanish 
soldiers in the hospital, the poorer classes of the inhabi- 
tants of Gibara and the Cuban troops. Also that, as there 
are foreign residents here, among them a French and a Por- 
tuguese Vice-Consul, who will look to the U. S. Govern- 
ment for protection, the U. S. force here be increased, and 
that I may be given fuller ' _„ .ructions with respect to my 
relations with the Cuban forces and the civil authorities of 
this town. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 83 

"General of Division Louis Feria and Brigadier-General 
Joaquin Pianos of the Cuban forces, have just made an of- 
ficial visit on board. I told them that as the representative 
of the U. S. Naval Force at this place, I should require a list 
of the civil authorities appointed by them to be first sub- 
mitted for my approval, in order that the appointees might 
understand that they would be held responsible for their 
official conduct by the U. S. Government as well as the 
Cuban authorities. They agreed to this and will submit all 
appointments. 

"Good order prevails and I do not apprehend any trouble ; 
but it would be well if I could be given fuller and more defi- 
nite instructions as to my duties.'"' 

The tug Manati, of American ownership, but with a 
Spanish register, and employed for the towage of sugar- 
lighters, came out from Casilda, the port of Trinidad on the 
south coast, and delivered herself up. The master reports 
several of the sugar-lighters to have been sunk in the chan- 
nel, and that all the inhabitants are anxious lor surrender, 
even those of Spanish proclivities, as they recognize the 
necessary outcome of the war. 

On July 21st the Wilmington, Helena, Manning and 
Hist cut the cable between Jucaro and Tunas. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 51. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Tuesday, Augi- st 2, 1898. 
The Niagara went to sea -? f 5:15 a. m. bound to Ponce, 
Puerto Rico, in order to deliver ammunition and stores to 
Massachusetts. 



84 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 52. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Wednesday, August 3, 1898. 

The Dixie came in at 8 a. m. from Puerto Rico. After 
her capture of Ponce she had gone to St. Thomas with des- 
patches and had returned to San Juan and thence to Ponce. 
She and the Massachusetts left there about 1 p. m. of 
August 1st. Meeting the Yankee, which had left that 
day to go to Ponce with ammunition, etc., for the Massa- 
chusetts, the Yankee turned back to Guantanamo, where 
she arrived at 1 p. m. She sent in the Norwegian steamer 
Marie, which had been loaded with coal for Admiral Cer- 
vera's squadron, and of whose character the squadron had 
long been informed. The Yankee shortly after went out to 
look after the English steamer Burton, which she had 
overhauled, and which was of somewhat similar character. 
Both had documents from the U. S. Consul at Point a 
Pitre, Guadeloupe, where they had long been lying. The 
Burton had loaded at Cardiff and the Marie May 226. at 
Cadiz. The Marie also had 48 tons of provisions. These 
ships were practically of the same character as the Rotiier- 
mel and Twickenham. 

The Mayflower left at 5:50 p. m. for San Juan and St. 
Thomas. The Massachusetts arrived at 10:50 p. m. from 
Ponce. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 53. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Thursday, August 4, 1898. 
The Vixen left at 7:30 for Santiago with some 240 bags 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 85 

of Army mail brought by the Mayflower from Key West. 

The Scorpion arrived at 9:10 from the Cape Cruz sta- 
tion. 

The Potomac arrived at 5 p. m. from the Marie Teresa. 
She brought some ten thousand dollars which had been re- 
covered aboard the Marie Teresa. This money was in a 
box in the forepeak of the ship. 

The Vixen returned at 8:30 p. m. from Santiago. 

It is found that the water of Guantanamo river from two 
to three miles above the mouth is fresh and excellent for 
boiler purposes. The Indiana has supplied herself with 
this, using her boats. 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 54. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Friday, August, 5, 1898. 

The Frolic came in at 8:30 p. m. from Key West with 
mails. 

The Senior arrived with a wrecking partyfor the Colon; 
material in the way of pontoons and bags with a displace- 
ment of 8 or 9 tons is following. 

The Marines broke camp and went on board the Reso- 
lute preparatory to service elsewhere. The Battalion has 
been remarkably healthy during its stay at Playa del Este, 
its condition being a marked tribute to the precautions and 
care exercised as to its well-being. It shows in how great 
a degree the question of health in the tropics, even in the 
worst season, is made to depend upon foresight and care. 
Their camp was, of course, exceptionally well-placed, with 
no swamps, with good drainage, dry, etc., but the earlier 
days of their duty ashore were of a very trying character, 



86 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

and, had not special care been taken, would have resulted in 
sickness. The distilled water used, furnished by the ships, 
no doubt contributed very materially to this good result. 
The question of health is an interesting and most important 
one, and the following information will not be amiss. 

The following shows the number of officers and men 
aboard each ship except the Supply, now in Guantanamo 
Bay, and the number of the sick: 

Number of Number of 
people aboard. sick. 

NEW YORK 658 21 

OREGON 555 14 

BROOKLYN 560 27 

MASSACHUSETTS 516 21 

NEWARK 315 14 

IOWA 583 8 

INDIANA 562 13 

DIXIE 325 2 

MARBLEHEAD 269 6 

YANKEE 324 5 

DETROIT 250 3 

VESUVIUS 79 o 

RESOLUTE 122 11 

SCORPION in 4 

VIXEN 80 6 

WOMPATUCK 32 o 

OSCEOLA 28 4 

MARINE BATTALION 496 12 



5.865 171 

This gives an average of about three per cent, sick for the 
ships and about two and a half for the Marine battalion. 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 87 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 55. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Saturday, August 6, 1898. 

The Armeria left for Key West at 12.55 P- m - The St. 
Louis arrived from Puerto Rico at 1.55 p. m. She had 
reached Ponce July 31st with Major-General Brooke and 
staff and the Third Illinois Regiment of infantry. August 
1st she went with Gloucester and Wasp to reconnoiter 
Jobos and Arroyo with reference to landing part of the 
troops. Jobos being too shallow, Arroyo was occupied, it 
being surrendered by the civil authorities, the Spanish 
troops having fled on the approach of the ships. Lieuten- 
ant Wood, of the Gloucester, was sent ashore with thirty 
men to hold the place. August 2d the Third Illinois Regi- 
ment was landed. 

At 9.30 p. m. the Niagara returned from Puerto Rico. 
At 11.30 p. m. the Supply proceeded to New York. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 56. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Sunday, August 7, 1898. 
The collier Lebanon arrived at 8.15 a. m. with the 
schooner Augustus Palmer, also with coal, in tow. The 
Frolic left at 11.20 with mails for Puerto Rico. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 57. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Monday, August 8, 1898. 
The Marblehead came down at 6.30 p. m. from Cai- 



88 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

manera for coal. The Army steamer San Juan and 
schooner Frank Palmer (collier) left the harbor. The 
Vixen and Osceola went to Daiquiri for water. 

Captain Barker having been ordered from the Newark 
to command the Oregon, Captain Goodrich was ordered 
by the Department to the former ship. Captain Sigsbee has 
been ordered to command the Texas. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 58. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Tuesday, August 9, 1898. 

At 5.40 a. m. the St. Louis left for Santiago. At 6.30 
a. m. the St. Paul arrived. At 1 p. m. the Scorpion went 
to Daiquiri, thence to her station off Cape Cruz and Man- 
zanillo. At 4 p. m. the Newark got underway for the Isle 
of Pines; the Resolute left at 5 and the Suwanee at 6.30 
for the same place. 

The following is an extract from a report of Commander 
Clover, of the Bancroft, dated August 2nd: 

"On the morning of July 28th met the Eagle off Cape 
Frances and with her proceeded to the vicinity of a Cuban 
camp about five miles to the westward of Cape Frances. 
Lieutenant Del Valle came on board. Stated he had sixty 
men with him and that there was another smaller camp 
inside of Cape Frances. I sent ashore a small supply of 
provisions, and it was agreed that the Bancroft should 
return on the evening of Saturday, when we could meet 
Colonel Lazo, the Cuban Commander of the district, and 
there would be a local pilot ready. The Bancroft, with 
the Eagle, then proceeded into Cortes Bay and anchored 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 89 

about three miles from the entrance of the lagoon, where 
the town of Cortes is, and about the same distance from the 
wreck of the steamer Santo Domingo, to which I pro- 
ceeded immediately in company with Lieutenant Souther- 
land. I found that the work of destruction had been very 
destructive; the entire cargo absolutely destroyed, and the 
ship itself, rendered by heat, a gnarled mass of iron. The 
only things that had seemingly escaped were the five-inch 
guns ; the threads of the inside of the breech of the guns 
were so cut by Lieutenant Southerland before firing the 
ship as to render the guns useless, at least until handled by 
a gun factory. The gun-shields are in good condition. No 
vessel here has appliances for transferring the guns and 
shields. The twelve-inch guns doubtless broke through 
the bottom of the vessel, as the hold is full of water. It is 
possible that the engines and boilers are still good ; fire was 
still smoldering in parts of the ship. 

"On the morning of July 29th smoke was seen to the 
southward and eastward of anchorage and, on giving chase, 
it was found to be the Maple. I directed her to proceed 
into Cortes Bay, and with the Bancroft and Eagle pro- 
ceeded to Siguanea Bay, on the west side of the Isle of 
Pines. This location is likely to prove one of importance, 
as it will afford an anchorage during a hurricane and, with 
Cortes entrance, affords the only passage for communica- 
tion with Batabano, to the westward of the Isle of Pines. 
Its present drawback is want of knowledge of a safe pass- 
age in, you run from very deep water into five fathoms, 
and then with uncertain depth, hard bottom, until you are 
into a large area of four to six fathoms, good holding 
ground. Upon dropping anchor on outer ledge, sighted a 
schooner inside the bay about four miles distant. Lowered 



go SQUADRON BULLETINS 

the steam launch with a i-pounder gun and armed crow, 
in charge of Ensign W. W. Phelps, who captured and 
brought her out. She was quite small and named the Nipe. 
Another vessel was seen further in and the Eagle pursued 
her, but was unable to follow on account of darkness, 
though Lieutenant Southerland ran boldly till he was in 14 
feet of water. During the night experienced heavy storms, 
and the Bancroft dragged off the shoal ledge. The fol- 
lowing morning the sea being too rough to sound out a 
deep passage in, the BANCROFT,with prize in tow and Eagle 
in company, proceeded to the westward to communicate 
with Cuban camp, and when opposite to Cortes Bay sent 
prize into anchorage with two armed men, so that Nipe 
people should not have information of the location of the 
Cubans, but from later information as to the methods of 
campaigning here, between the Spaniards in the towns and 
the Cubans outside, this was found to have been an un- 
necessary precaution. On arriving off Cuban camp the sea 
was too heavy to communicate, so, in company with the 
Maple, which had come out to meet us, proceeded into 
Cortes Bay for a conference. On approaching anchorage was 
surprised to see our prize, well in shore, flying the Spanish 
colors, and two boats approaching her, and in a few minutes 
later I distinguished our two men — John Hovis, Gunners' 
Mate, third class, and Valdemar Helmgren, Seaman, at the 
stern of the vessel and the Spaniards forward. I mega- 
phoned the Maple, which draws but eight feet of water, to 
go to the rescue. On her return I found that our men had 
captured six prisoners, the Spanish flag having been used 
to draw them within range of their rifles. These prisoners 
I am keeping on the prize; have treated them well and have 
gotten valuable information from them. Expect to put 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 91 

them ashore to-day. Sunday I sent Lieutenant Veeder and 
Ensign Vogelgesang with steam cutter and armed party 
into Cortes lagoon to make soundings and observations, 
and started the prize with Ensign Phelps in charge to ob- 
serve along the outer shore, with a view of subsequently 
destroying the barracks, where about a hundred Spanish 
troops are quartered. On Sunday morning, when inter- 
viewing the prisoners, I got the invariable reply to ques- 
tion:— 'What will be the result if the Spanish garrison is 
driven from Cortes?' — 'The people will be killed by the 
Cubans.' Fearing this result, and not being able to hold the 
place permanently with my present force, I decided to make 
no attack. The following description of the military situa- 
tion about Cortes, obtained from my prisoners, will show 
the general conditions and the way the war between Spain 
and the Cubans has been carried on : 

"Cortes has about 1,700 inhabitants and is a shipping 
port for the rich tobacco district. The post was formerly 
a Colonel's command and over one thousand troops were 
kept here ; but about six weeks ago all but one hundred 
were sent to Pinar del Rio, or Havana, and the post left in 
command of a Lieutenant. I learned that about the time 
the Santiago expedition started nearly all the troops in the 
western end of the Island were withdrawn and concen- 
trated about Havana, or at the end of the railroad Pinar 
del Rio, which indicates that Blanco thought the open talk 
of our forces going to Santiago was a ruse. 

"The Cubans have their camps on the moors and along 
the coast, and make frequent raids on the towns where the 
Spaniards are content to remain and allow the Cubans to 
rove. One prisoner told me that there were twelve hun- 
dred Cubans in the vicinity and at the camp where Lieu- 



92 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

tenant Del Valle was there were three, but we had it from 
him that there were only sixty. The old Spaniard, the cap- 
tain and owner of the schooner, is reticent, but says he is 
a peaceful citizen and the sole support of a wife and seven 
children. From the boy, who is quite bright, I have gained 
considerable information regarding affairs about the Isle of 
Pines. Nueva Gerona, the principal place, is a small town 
on the north side, where there is a government hospital to 
which they send their wounded. It is considered a very 
healthy place, but they now have some yellow fever and 
small-pox there. A small steamer named the Protector 
makes trips every other day between Nueva Gerona and 
Batabano, leaving Nueva Gerona at 3 p. m. and arriving at 
8 a. m. A small gunboat with 1 -pounder makes frequent 
trips. The boy says provisions are very scarce, that flour 
is very hard to get and that poor people die in the street 
for want of food and medicine. That formerly there was a 
very large cattle ranch on the south side of the island, and 
that cattle were sent over to Batabano, but that the cattle 
were nearly all gone now and that beef was fifty cents a 
pound. That the Bancroft is the largest steamer he has 
seen at the Island. I am inclined to believe the story of the 
boy and that no large shipments are getting in by way of 
the Isle of Pines. I have, however, sent the Maple to Se- 
guanea Bay to make soundings and hope to enter with the 
Bancroft to-morrow. I shall then, with the Bancroft's 
steam launch sounding ahead, go with the Maple to Nueva 
Gerona and stop all traffic with Batabano, after which I 
shall examine closely the south shore of the Island to see 
if schooners are landing cattle there. 

"The prisoners say no vessels have come into Cortes Bay 
since the loss of the Santo Domingo. They say that noth- 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 93 

ing but fruit and vegetables can be gotten ashore to eat and 
that everybody must give part of what they raise to the 
Army, and that there is much suffering amongst the people 
for food. To maintain an absolute blockade there should 
be five vessels of light draught. There are good reasons 
why they should work in pairs. A vessel anchored in 
Cortes Bay and another in Seguranca Bay, ready to move, 
would give a more efficient blockade, than to have the two 
vessels moving outside, besides saving coal. Were there 
two vessels at each place one could be, as a rule, outside, 
and a fifth, of deeper draught, with Senior Officer, could 
cover the station. The schooner Nipe has not sufficient 
value to send her into a prize-court and I have decided that 
all interests will be best served by taking her back to Se- 
guanea Bay and, if the old Spaniard behaves himself, to 
give him his freedom, with the vessel. She had no cargo 
and the captain claims was engaged in carrying wood and 
charcoal." 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 59. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Wednesday, August 10, 1! 

At 5.30 the Ai.varado got underway and at 9 a. m the 
Osceola, both for the Isle of Pines. 

The Lebanon and Ericsson got underway at 2 p. m. for 
Cardenas. The Ericsson was to go in company that far 
with the Lebanon and get a convoy from there to Key 
West. 



94 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

The Niagara left at 6 p. m. for Puerto Rico and thence 
to Key West. 

At ii p. m. the Scorpion arrived from Daiquiri. 

The Marblehead re-adjusted the position of the entrance 
buoys in Guantanamo Bay. 

Mr. Goode of the Associated Press received a dispatch 
from his Association that a peace protocol had been signed. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 60. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Thursday, August ii, 1898. 
The New York left Guantanamo at 3.15 for the Infanta 
Maria Teresa, and spent the day in rousing up her chains, 
which were placed amidships. The wrecking-tug M err itt 
hauled alongside and began taking these aboard with a 
view to lightening the ship ; the anchors were also to be re- 
moved. The water had in the last day or two gained, and 
it has become clear that the removal of all weights which 
can be readily moved is a necessity. The wreckers live 
aboard and have their stationary engines for pumping 
established in the ship and the ship's own pumps have been 
used at times to keep her free. The principal leak seems to 
be under the forward turret, and is very difficult to get at 
on account of the narrow openings in the lower decks, pre- 
cluding a diver's getting through. Two heavy lines, a four- 
teen and a seventeen-inch, are laid out astern and hove taut ; 
the ship has moved seaward some three feet. The leaks, 
however, must necessarily be fully stopped before she is 
pulled entirely off, as otherwise there is danger of her filling 
too rapidly for the capacity of the pumps. It would have 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 95 

been better that her guns and heavy weights should have 
been removed at first ; there should be no difficulty in tak- 
ing out her fifteen c-m guns, which, with their shields and 
mounts, weigh about ioo tons. These, with chains, anchors 
and ammunition, will amount to about 200 tons, a very con- 
siderable lightening in her present condition. 

While on the point of leaving for Guantanamo the Scor- 
pion arrived with a telegram reporting that Captain-Gen- 
eral Blanco contemplated leaving Havana, and that Com- 
modore Watson had sent the Dixie and Yankee into the 
Bahama Channel, and had ordered the Brooklyn off Cien- 
fuegos. The Scorpion was ordered back to Guantanamo 
to inform the Commodore that the New York would go off 
to the western end of Jamaica, and at 9 o'clock the ship 
started for Point Negril. 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 61. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Friday, August 12, 1898. 
The New York arrived off the west end of Jamaica in 
the forenoon, and after remaining some time in the vicinity 
cruised eastward and finally, at four, headed for Guan- 
tanamo, the only incident of the day being the speaking of 
a British steamer bound from the Cape Verdes to Mobile. 



SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 62. 

U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA. 



Saturday, August 13, 1898. 
The New York arrived at Guantanamo at 8.25 a. m., 



96 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

having spoken during the morning the Spanish steamer 
P. de Satrustegui with a safe conduct and bound for San- 
tiago to carry thence Spanish troops for Spain. 

The Solace was found to have arrived. 

At 2.00 the Scorpion and Vixen arrived, having been 
in search of the flagship on account of the arrival the pre- 
ceding evening of a telegram ordering the suspension of 
hostilities, and ordering the New York, Brooklyn, Mas- 
sachusetts, Oregon, Iowa and Indiana to New York. 

During the forenoon the following was received by tele- 
graph : 

Washington, August 13, 1898. 

The following proclamation has been issued by the Presi- 
dent of the United States: 

WHEREAS, by a Protocol concluded and signed 
August 1 2th, 1898, by William R. Day, Secretary of State 
of the United States, and His Excellency Jules Cambon, 
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Re- 
public of France at Washington, respectively representing 
for this purpose the Government of the United States and 
the Government of Spain; the United States and Spain 
have formally agreed upon the terms on which the negotia- 
tions for the establishment of peace between the two coun- 
tries shall be undertaken, and, whereas, it is in the said Pro- 
tocol agreed that, upon its conclusion and signature, hostili- 
ties between the two countries shall be suspended and that 
notice to that effect shall be given, as soon as possible, by 
each Government to the Commanders of its military and 
naval forces; now, therefore, I, William McKinley, Presi- 
dent of the United States, do, in accordance with the stipu- 
lation of the Protocol, declare and proclaim on the part of 



SQUADRON BULLETINS 97 

the United States, a suspension of hostilities, and do hereby 
command that orders be immediately given, through 
the proper channel, to the commanders of military and naval 
forces of the United States, to abstain from all acts incon- 
sistent with this proclamation. 

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and 
caused the seal of the United States to be affixed. 

Done at the City of Washington this twelfth day of 
August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hun- 
dred and ninety-eight, and of the Independence of the 
United States, the one hundred and twenty-third. 

By the President, 

WILLIAM McKINLEY. 

WILLIAM R. DAY, Secretary of State. 



Orders were given for the ships mentioned to be ready 
to sail at 10 a. m. on the following day. All ships on the 
south coast east of Cienfuegos and at Puerto Rico were or- 
dered to rendezvous at Guantanamo, except the Puritan, 
Terror, Amphitrite, Prairie, Wasp and Hannibal, 
which were ordered to go to Guanica, which is an excellent 
and secure harbor. A despatch was received from the Com- 
manding Officer of the Newark that he had proceeded off 
Manzanillo with the Newark, Resolute, Suwanee, Hist, 
Osceola and Alvarado and demanded the surrender of 
the place, which being refused, he had shelled the batteries 
during the 12th. On the morning of the 13th he received 
under a flag of truce a telegram from the Department an- 
nouncing a cessation of hostilities. No losses were incurred 
by us. He was ordered to return to Guantanamo and to 
word to all ships to the westward to proceed to Key West. 



98 SQUADRON BULLETINS 

SQUADRON BULLETIN No. 63. 



U. S. FLAGSHIP NEW YORK, AT SEA. 



Sunday, August 14, 1898. 
The armored ships left for New York at 10 a. m. 
The publication of the Bulletin is suspended. 











































































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